MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Notre Dame’s College Football Playoff journey has solidified its independent status, regardless of how the season concludes.
The Fighting Irish’s thrilling last-second 27-24 victory over Penn State in the CFP Orange Bowl semifinal not only secured a spot in the national championship game but also netted them a $20 million payout.With one game remaining in the CFP, Notre Dame is in an advantageous position.
Athletic director Pete Bevacqua expressed confidence in their future, citing a long-term media rights deal with NBC and the benefits of playoff expansion. The outcome of their next game against either Ohio State or Texas will not change the significant achievement of this postseason run.Notre Dame has shown it can thrive independently, navigating a landscape that often pressures teams to join conferences for financial gain.
Critics, including Penn State coach James Franklin, have questioned their independent status, but Notre Dame has proven its worth.The victory over Penn State generated a $6 million payout from the CFP, contributing to a total postseason haul of $20 million: $4 million for qualifying, $4 million for reaching the quarterfinals, and $6 million each for advancing to the semifinals and finals.
This financial independence allows Notre Dame to retain all earnings without sharing them with a conference.With an estimated $50 million annual television deal with NBC, Notre Dame’s total revenue from this playoff run reaches $70 million, comparable to SEC and Big Ten teams. Joining a conference would have required sharing these funds, diminishing their financial advantage.Coach Marcus Freeman praised the team’s resilience throughout the season, which began with a disappointing loss to Northern Illinois.
Despite facing challenges during the game against Penn State, including trailing in the fourth quarter, the Irish found a way to win thanks to key plays from quarterback Riley Leonard and cornerback Christian Gray.As they prepare for their final game, Notre Dame stands on the brink of claiming its first national title since 1988.
Their independent status has allowed them to maintain financial strength and competitive viability in modern college football while remaining true to their storied tradition.
“This has been an incredible journey,” Bevacqua stated. “We have the history, the tradition, and our independence. Plus, we believe we have the best coach in college football.”They will never join a conference now.
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