ND could do exactly that (just like the B1G and the Pac12 did for the Bowl Alliance). could you imagine a scenario where ND was #1 or #2 in the polls and they accepted a bid to the Gator Bowl because they weren't part of the BCS? the BCS had to cover their bases and ensure all 120+FBS schools were on board for their #1 v #2 plan, and ND was the one independent school that had the potential and the leverage to take advantage.