The best-selling college football video game will include an Ohio State Buckeyes athlete on the cover for the first time.
The release of EA Sports’ “College Football 26” video game has generated significant excitement among college football fans, particularly those supporting the Ohio State Buckeyes. For the first time in the franchise’s history, an Ohio State athlete—sophomore wide receiver Jeremiah Smith—has been featured on the game’s cover. This milestone not only highlights Smith’s exceptional talent but also underscores the growing prominence of the Buckeyes in the college football landscape.(The US Sun, Reuters)
Jeremiah Smith’s inclusion on the cover of “College Football 26” is a testament to his outstanding performance during the 2024 season. As a freshman, Smith quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the nation. He recorded 1,315 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, playing a pivotal role in Ohio State’s national championship run. His remarkable statistics and playmaking ability have garnered widespread recognition, culminating in his selection as a cover athlete for the game .(The US Sun, Reuters)
The decision to feature Smith on the cover is also significant in the context of the game’s development. “College Football 26” is the second installment since EA Sports revived the college football video game series, following a hiatus due to legal challenges over player likeness rights. With the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements, EA Sports has been able to include current college athletes in the game, allowing fans to engage with their favorite players in a virtual setting.(Chron, 10TV)
Smith’s selection is particularly noteworthy considering the competitive field of potential cover athletes. Notably, Texas quarterback Arch Manning, a highly anticipated prospect, declined the opportunity to appear on the cover. Reports suggest that both Manning and Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian chose to remain in Austin, opting out of the photoshoot for the game’s cover . This decision opened the door for other standout players like Smith to be featured prominently.(Reuters, Chron)
The cover of “College Football 26” showcases Smith alongside Alabama’s Ryan Williams, marking the first time in the franchise’s history that two wide receivers have graced the cover. Williams, who amassed 865 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in the 2024 season, is recognized for his explosive playmaking ability and has been a key contributor to Alabama’s offensive success .(Reuters)
In addition to the standard edition cover athletes, the deluxe edition of the game features a broader array of college football figures. This includes coaches such as Ohio State’s Ryan Day, Georgia’s Kirby Smart, and Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman, as well as former stars like Tim Tebow and Reggie Bush. The inclusion of these figures reflects the game’s commitment to celebrating the rich history and diverse personalities that have shaped college football .(Reuters)
The release of “College Football 26” is set for July 10, 2025, with pre-orders already available. Fans can look forward to an immersive gaming experience that not only allows them to control their favorite teams and players but also offers a platform to celebrate the achievements of college football athletes like Jeremiah Smith. His presence on the cover symbolizes the rising stars of the sport and the enduring legacy of college football in the gaming world.(Houston Chronicle, FOX Sports)
