WHAT IF… Notre Dame gives up independence?

The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame are fighting mad about being left out of this season’s College Football Playoff. They have every right to feel that way.

Over the last century, Notre Dame has steadfastly maintained their independence in college football. Their stated goal is to have a clear path to a national championship. It’s worked out well for them.

Until this season!

The CFP selection committee’s decision to leave the Irish out of the playoffs this year could have far reaching implications for the Irish.

When the smoke clears, Notre Dame will no longer have an almost guaranteed path to the “pot of gold.” Are they willing to maintain independence in face of the changing landscape of college football? This may call for them to rethink their position on independence.

So, what if Notre Dame decides to explore conference affiliation?

First, it won’t happen until 2030-31 when conference rights agreements are up for grabs again.

Second, Notre Dame has had a solid media partner in NBC for 35 years. Why would they give up that successful relationship?

Third, where would Notre Dame consider membership? It’s more complicated than you think.

Would Notre Dame consider becoming a member of the SEC?

Not likely, especially after ESPN and the SEC pushed Alabama and Oklahoma on the CFP selection committee at the expense of the Irish. Bad blood now flows.

Would Notre Dame consider becoming a member of the Big Ten?

Perhaps, but the Irish have been reluctant to wage recruiting wars with Ohio State, Michigan and Penn State for midwest recruiting talent.

Would Notre Dame consider becoming a full member of the ACC?

Not right now after the perceived lack of support from the conference over this year’s selection support.

However, when the smoke clears Notre Dame has to at least reconsider conference affiliation. If they do reconsider affiliation, which conference will give the them the best financial security and the cleanest path to future national championships?

Pushing aside their current anger with the ACC, this may be their best future option.

First, ACC commissioner Jim Phillips is on the hot seat over his continuous leadership failures. His days may be numbered. Second, the ACC’s business relationship with ESPN is tenuous at best. When the ACC’s media rights contract with ESPN runs out, this could open the door for NBC/Peacock to continue their successful relationship with Notre Dame with an even more attractive inventory of schools.

Interesting.

BOTTOM LINE:

We do NOT see Notre Dame giving up their independence in the near future. But the writing is on the wall down the road.

GO CANES!