Notre Dame Declines Bowl Invitation After Missing CFP

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish entered the postseason hoping for an at-large spot in the College Football Playoff, only to be excluded from the bracket. Athletic director Pete Bevacqua publicly criticized the selection process, calling it a “joke” following the announcement.

In the wake of the disappointment, Notre Dame announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the program will withdraw from consideration for any bowl game this season. “As a team, we’ve decided to withdraw our name from consideration for a bowl game following the 2025 season. We appreciate all the support from our families and fans, and we’re hoping to bring the 12th national title to South Bend in 2026,” the post read.

This decision makes Notre Dame the third FBS program this year to decline a bowl invitation, joining Kansas State and Iowa State. The Irish had been ranked above Miami in previous CFP ranking shows, fueling expectations that they might secure a postseason berth.

Players, staff, and administrators were reportedly stunned as the final rankings were revealed. Bevacqua described the student-athletes’ reaction as “utter disbelief and sadness,” noting that they had followed all guidance and performed as instructed throughout the season.

1. Bowl Invitation and Decision

Notre Dame had been offered a spot in the Pop-Tarts Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando on December 27, where they would have faced BYU, according to Brett McMurphy of ON3. Despite the invitation, the team opted to end its season rather than participate. The decision reflects a combination of disappointment and principle, with the program signaling its dissatisfaction with the CFP selection process. By declining the bowl, Notre Dame emphasizes its focus on the next season while making a statement about its expectations for postseason recognition. Notre Dame’s choice also underscores a broader trend this year, as a small number of programs have turned down postseason opportunities for various reasons, including player welfare and perceived inequities in selection. The Irish will conclude the season with a 10-2 record, maintaining a strong overall performance while foregoing a traditional postseason finale.

2. Reactions and Implications

Bevacqua’s comments and the team’s decision highlight frustration within Notre Dame regarding the playoff selection methodology. The Irish had consistently been ranked favorably, raising expectations for at least an at-large CFP spot. The student-athletes’ disappointment reflects the emotional stakes of missing the CFP, particularly for seniors and key contributors who had anticipated ending their careers on a national stage. Bevacqua’s remarks emphasized the clarity and effort the players demonstrated throughout the campaign. Declining the bowl game also allows Notre Dame to shift its focus entirely to the 2026 season, with the program aiming for its 12th national championship. The decision sends a message about prioritizing preparation, player health, and long-term goals over a lower-tier postseason matchup. While some fans may be disappointed to miss the additional game, the team’s statement reinforces the Irish’s commitment to competing at the highest level and setting expectations for future CFP consideration.

3. Looking Ahead

Notre Dame’s season officially concludes at 10-2, marking the end of a strong campaign without a bowl appearance. The decision to decline a postseason game reflects both disappointment and a strategic focus on the future. The program can now devote resources and energy to recruiting, training, and preparing for the 2026 season without the distraction of a late December bowl game. Leadership and staff can assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses in preparation for a championship push next year. As the Irish look ahead, the narrative around this season will likely center on the missed CFP opportunity and the program’s principled stance in declining the bowl. The move sets a precedent and sends a clear signal to the broader college football landscape. Notre Dame’s decision will remain a talking point through the offseason, influencing conversations about playoff selection, bowl participation, and program priorities moving forward.