I just wonder

by APND02 , Winston-Salem, NC, Tuesday, March 09, 2010, 14:54 (5935 days ago) @ Pat

if we would even be having a conversation about this if Notre Dame football was what it used to be. If this was the late 80's or early 90's and the team consistently played at an elite level would something like this conference expansion movement even be enough to force Swarbrick's hand?

It seems that there is this pervasive notion amongst those that guide the program that Notre Dame football is relegated to mediocrity and that, as such, it is better to bargain for the best deal. This is most often personified by the constant financially-motivated decision making that seems to drive the program.

Personally, I believe that excellence on the field and the other missions of the University aren't mutually exclusive, and think Notre Dame football is good for a lot more than money. Notre Dame football could be the strongest brand in the country and worth far more in dollars and bargaining position than any of the leadership acknowledge.

Or perhaps they just aren't willing to pay the price to succeed at an elite level or don't think it worthwhile.