Part 3/10:
In the 1950s, when the NCAA began restricting televised games to counter attendance declines, Notre Dame negotiated a lucrative solo deal with ABC, circumventing the limitations faced by conference-affiliated teams. This autonomy enabled them to maximize revenue and control their broadcasting destiny, further solidifying their independent status.
The financial gains continued as time went on, culminating in a groundbreaking deal with NBC in 1990 that granted exclusive broadcasting rights for their games. With a potent combination of on-field success and a captivating brand, Notre Dame has thrived as an independent entity, continuously reinforcing its choice to remain outside traditional conference structures.