Paul Finebaum recently found himself in an unfamiliar position: defending Notre Dame.

The SEC Network host appeared on ESPN’s “Get Up” during the week. When discussing the proposed expansion to the College Football Playoff, Finebaum was asked about Notre Dame not being able to receive a bye. The top four conference champions will receive opening-round byes while seeds 5-12 will play in games held at the home stadium of the higher-seeded team.

“I don’t think I’ve ever made the following statement ‘this is not fair for Notre Dame,’” Finebaum said. “If you go back in the history of college sports, Notre Dame has literally stolen championships because they are Notre Dame … they do have some advantages, but I think and it’s time Jack Swarbrick and those who run Notre Dame need to get with the program. The ‘program’ is that they need to join a conference.

“Last year, they had a one-off. They joined the ACC on a one-year basis … I think it’s better for Notre Dame to be in a conference because there are too many obstacles. Playing at home is great, but there is still a lot of risk involved. In two years, think about this, Notre Dame plays Clemson and Ohio State. They can be undefeated having beaten two of the top four teams in the country, and they still have to play (a first-round game). That’s ridiculous.”

At a press conference, Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick acknowledged that the Irish could not get an opening-round bye under the CFP proposal.

“I look forward to never hearing again about how we played one less game and don’t have a conference championship,” Swarbrick told reporters.

[H/T 247Sports]