As one of the biggest programs in all of college football, Notre Dame is always at the center of attention.
After all, few programs – if any – are as polarizing as the Fighting Irish … You either love them or hate them. There is no in-between.
With all of the developments in the new landscape of the sport, Notre Dame’s longstanding place as an Independent is becoming more and more of an obstacle.
“Notre Dame is expected to have its own protections related to a format. The Irish can earn a guaranteed at-large spot based on their CFP ranking.”
Death, taxes, and Notre Dame staying independent when everyone else thinks this is finally the time. https://t.co/C514II6fcX pic.twitter.com/V5HE0sxM1V
— The 4 Horsemen Podcast (@HorsemenPod) March 19, 2024
However, many think it’s only a matter of time before Notre Dame finally joins a conference.
Of course, that is not an original thought and it’s one we hear on virtually a yearly-basis … But due to all of the moving parts in college football, the time may finally be upon us.
Since yall are forcing the 14 team playoffs that no one wants, how about yall force Notre Dame to join a conference that everyone wants.
Literally no reason for them not to be in a conference. https://t.co/ujtHUpo6kD
— Squidwards_WRLD (@SquidwardsWrld) March 15, 2024
You can count ESPN’s Paul Finebaum as one of the most prominent college football voices who believes Notre Dame will soon join a conference.
Appearing on “McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning,” Finebaum made it clear that he expects Notre Dame’s time as an Independent to come to an end.
“I ultimately believe that Notre Dame has gotten away with this for a long time,” he said. “I can’t imagine, long term, that they will, and I’m talking five, six, seven years down the road … At some point, they’re going to have to make a decision.”
"They hate us because they ain't us! “
Sums it up.Great read…. Bryan.
— Robert Bonavolta (@Bobbyb_) March 12, 2024
The prospect of Notre Dame relinquishing its Independent status is a departure from the tradition that has defined the program’s illustrious history.
Being Independent has not only enabled the Irish to establish themselves as one of the most iconic brands in all of sports but has also provided them with significant leverage in the college football landscape.
However, that landscape is changing more than ever these days…
Interesting and relevant.
I love the "and Notre Dame".
Got to respect the power and brand of the Irish to remain Independent all these years. You may love or hate but must respect the influence.
Just saying
The Old Man https://t.co/D93lYaqBtE— Seminoles Sideline 365 (@seminolesSL365) March 14, 2024
Finebaum gave Notre Dame credit for the agreement they came to with the ACC Conference where they’re able to enjoy the best of both worlds.
“I give them credit for being able to pull it off, and again, I think the ACC is really the loser of all this because Notre Dame joining the ACC like they did in everything but [football] was really how they were able to preserve their athletic department and remain independent in football,” Finebaum said.
Notre Dame staying Independent is basically what's keeping a P4 from going to P2
Next cycle in the 2030s. ND will have no choice except accept reality though
— Sawyer Niedens (@Big12BurnerKU) March 15, 2024
Finebaum underscored the discrepancy between Notre Dame’s arrangement with the ACC and the unlikelihood of a similar scenario unfolding in other conferences.
“Can you imagine the SEC doing that?” Finebaum posed rhetorically. “Saying, ‘Okay, Notre Dame. We’ll let you play everything but football.’ That’s just not even fathomable to me, and I think it’s a problem for the ACC now that they weren’t able to get them in.”
They have captains of industry for sure. But they will be forced to choose a conference.
— Sergeant–Sarge for Short (@SergeantMartee) March 12, 2024
“Five to 10 years from now, I’m not sure the exact number … I strongly believe that Notre Dame will finally say, ‘Enough is enough. We’re getting into a conference.'”
It's funny that no one hates Notre Dame football more the Paul Finebaum and Stephen A Smith, but all the sudden they are overly concerned for what is best for ND. There aren't many ND fans complaining about the first round bye, just people who dislike ND.
— Shoeless Dave (@DavidGrau7) February 23, 2024
What are your thoughts?
Will Notre Dame finally join a conference? … Should they? … If so, how long will it take to actually happen?
If you’re a fan of a Big Ten program, would you welcome Notre Dame in with open arms?
What, if any, ripple effect will the Irish joining a conference have on the college football landscape???