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Notre Dame stands out as one of the few remaining independent teams in college football. However, in the midst of widespread expansion and realignment, the university continues to be associated with the Big Ten. However, it didn’t seem like anything would change in the future.
The Fighting Irish have long cherished their independence and have always been proud of it. According to the university’s director of athletics, Jack Swarbrick, the school has no intention of making a change. He plans to continue to remain independent in football.
“There were times when people thought giving up was inevitable. I don’t understand that feeling now.”
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The question of whether Notre Dame will join the Big Ten has been a hot topic for years in college football. With the recent additions of USC and UCLA to the conference, all eyes were on the Fighting Irish for a potential realignment decision.
Factors that keep Notre Dame out of the Big Ten
Headlines over the years have continued to tie Notre Dame with the Big Ten. However, in the midst of the rumors circulating, two crucial factors seem to be preventing the school from making the decision. This enables the university to maintain its football autonomy.
The school’s contractual agreement with NBC, which gives them the right to broadcast home football games, is a major stumbling block. Although the deal is expected to expire in 2024, the Fighting Irish are unlikely to make a move until the contract expires.
A school’s eligibility for the College Football Playoff and participation in Bowls games plays a large role in their decision. With the college football playoffs moved down to 12 teams, the Fighting Irish are now in a much better position to make the playoffs.
Does joining the Big Ten benefit Notre Dame?
If Notre Dame plans to give up its independent status, the school has a lot to gain from joining the Big Ten. The television deal for the conference is worth billions of dollars, and you will be a huge beneficiary as you add the media value of the conference.
Being in the Big Ten would give the school an opportunity to play in the College Football Playoff more consistently. The Fighting Irish is a storied program in the world of college football and being a national champion can only enhance their track record.
Realigning with the Big Ten gives the school a better chance at the playoffs, especially when you start fielding 12 teams. It remains to be seen if Notre Dame will ever give up its cherished independence for money and championship chances.
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