The return of EA Sports College Football 25 after a decade-long hiatus was a resounding success, becoming the best-selling sports title in video game history. While the game succeeded in capturing the essence of college football with its attention to stadiums, traditions, mascots, and bands, fans are eager for the upcoming College Football 26 to expand on this foundation. Here are six key features and improvements that could elevate the game further:
1. Coordinator Mode in Dynasty
Dynasty mode already shines, but introducing the option to start as a coordinator could add a new layer of depth. Players could focus solely on offensive or defensive responsibilities, including calling plays and recruiting for their specialty. Transitioning to a head coaching role would reflect the coordinator’s archetype, such as excelling in defensive recruiting but requiring growth in offensive areas. This feature would make the journey to becoming a top head coach more strategic and challenging.
2. Enhanced Coordinator Impact
Hiring coordinators with distinct archetypes (e.g., recruiter, tactician) could add strategic depth to the game. Decisions on staffing would influence player development, in-game performance, and even recruiting success. Additionally, coordinators leaving for head coaching jobs and taking players with them—common in real-life college football—should be reflected in the game. These dynamics would bring realism and long-term consequences to Dynasty mode.
3. How-To-Play Mode
With many fans returning to college football games after years away, a robust tutorial system is essential. A “How-To-Play” mode could teach key football concepts, such as:
- Reading defenses and coverages.
- Following blocks in the running game.
- Understanding gap integrity and defensive assignments.
Inspired by John Madden’s vision of educating fans through video games, this mode would help newcomers and veterans alike improve their gameplay.
4. Return of Mascot Mashup
The beloved Mascot Mashup mode from earlier installments deserves a comeback. This lighthearted option lets players compete in exhibition games using mascots, adding a fun, nostalgic twist to the game.
5. Overhaul of Road to Glory (RTG) Mode
RTG in College Football 25 was a disappointment. The mode aimed to simulate the student-athlete experience but felt shallow and repetitive. Improvements for ’26 could include:
- Interactive Off-Field Activities: Make time management more engaging, such as actual mini-games for studying or training.
- Improved Rotations: Ensure star players get meaningful playtime, avoiding frustrating stretches where players feel sidelined.
- Coach Trust Revamp: Allow players to influence play-calling and game decisions as they grow into leadership roles.
- Deeper Career Progression: Add dynamic storylines, rivalries, and changes from season to season to keep the mode fresh and exciting.
Balancing realism with entertainment should be the focus, creating a mode that players want to stick with for multiple seasons.
6. Cover Athlete Choices
The College Football series has historically celebrated the game’s biggest stars. For College Football 26, some exciting options for the cover include:
- Jeremiah Smith & Caleb Downs (Ohio State)
- Garrett Nussmeier & Harold Perkins (LSU)
- Arch Manning (Texas)
- Ryan Williams (Alabama)
- Cade Klubnik (Clemson)
- Drew Allar (Penn State)
- Dylan Stewart & LaNorris Sellers (South Carolina)
- DJ Lagway (Florida)
Featuring rising stars or dual covers with dynamic duos could further enhance the game’s appeal.
With the success of College Football 25, expectations are sky-high for 26. Fans are hopeful EA Sports will listen to feedback and expand gameplay depth, creating a title that continues to capture the passion of college football.
