For many of the Clemson football fans that that hope the ACC survives long term the answer has been Notre Dame joining the conference in football. As a matter of fact, many people believe this is the only way the ACC survives.
Well, if the latest reports are true that ain’t happening, as the Irish are apparently eyeing a pay day all by their lonesome.
"Notre Dame is reportedly seeking $75 million annually from NBC.The university is currently taking in $22 million per year from the network. The long-term deal averages $15 million per year, but is back-loaded with the more expensive years at the end of the contract.The deal expires in 2025."
It’s quite the leap from the current $22,000,000 per year to $75,000,000, but the way money is being thrown around these days, it could come to fruition.
Notre Dame’s huge alumni base and even larger fan base mean this is not out of the question. If not the full 75, perhaps some multiple of 22.
Throughout the article there is mention of the Irish perhaps joining the Big 10 and separate mentions of the Big 12 and PAC-12.
Guess which conference isn’t even mentioned in the article? Yep, the ACC.
It’s not even a thought for the writer or Notre Dame.
Previous interpretations of Notre Dame’s agreement with the ACC indicates there are easy outs for the Irish. Sure, it’ll cost, but if there’s $75 million waiting, you pay and move on.
While the ACC braintrust waits for the next shoe to fall, other conferences and teams are being proactive.
I’m not sure what moves the ACC can make, maybe none, as the Grant of Rights seems ironclad from everything I’ve read, but as a fan it’s extremely frustrating to watch everyone else secure their future while your team twists in the wind.
The ACC will be fine in the short term, but eventually the money will lead to inequities in the sport and the ACC teams won’t be able to keep up with the Jones’ (SEC and Big 10).