The ACC is always a potential threat to ND's football independence.

It is a structural conflict, the ACC wants ND football to join, even to have things happen to "force" it to join.

ND does not want to do that or see that happen, hence the conflict point.

Otherwise, the interests of ND, the ACC and "the Alliance" are the same.

ND has nothing in common with the SEC, except playoff expansion. The SEC and ND align only on the issue of more at large playoff bids.

Otherwise, the SEC and ND are the opposite of natural allies.

I don't like Lincoln Riley to USC only because I want USC to continue to struggle.

Its been over 1,850 days since USC has defeated ND. I have enjoyed that run.

However, I am not sold that he is the second coming of Pete Carroll. We shall see.

I am also not convinced that his move is anything more than him not wanting to compete in the SEC and thinking the Pac 12 is a better opportunity for wins and playoff bids than a loaded SEC.

I don't think that his hiring by USC means anything at all to an expanded playoff vote.