EA Sports released their full Top 25 overall team ratings on June 27, 2025, ahead of the game’s official release on July 10, 2025 . Here’s the complete list:
Rank Team Overall Rating
1 Alabama Crimson Tide 89
2–8 Texas Longhorns, Ohio State Buckeyes, Penn State Nittany Lions, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Georgia Bulldogs, Clemson Tigers, Texas A&M Aggies 88
9–13 Oregon Ducks, LSU Tigers, Miami Hurricanes, Florida Gators, Texas Tech Red Raiders 86
14–18 Arizona State Sun Devils, Michigan Wolverines, Ole Miss Rebels, Oklahoma Sooners, Indiana Hoosiers 85
19–23 SMU Mustangs, Tennessee Volunteers, Missouri Tigers, Auburn Tigers, Duke Blue Devils 84
24 South Carolina Gamecocks 82
25 Illinois Fighting Illini 82
Alabama stands alone at the top with an 89—followed closely by seven programs tied at 88 .
—
🎯 Key Takeaways
1. A new No. 1:
Alabama claims the top overall rating (89), bumping everyone else to second place—even national champion Ohio State, who now ties with seven other programs at 88 . This shift suggests Alabama’s roster is viewed as the most balanced and dominant across offense and defense in the digital landscape.
2. Tight race at the top:
With seven teams tied at 88, competition is fierce. Powerhouse programs—Texas, Penn State, Georgia, Clemson, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas A&M—are virtually on equal footing. In-game, this parity likely leads to incredibly competitive matchups.
3. Depth beyond the elites:
The 86–85 tier features major programs like Oregon, LSU, Michigan, Miami, and Florida—a broad mix of conference champions and contenders. Many of these teams surprise with strong offensive or defensive units that push them into the Top 15.
4. Playing the dark horses:
SMU, Tennessee, Missouri, Auburn, Duke, and South Carolina also earned quality ranking spots (82–84). These schools bring underrated appeal, offering a chance to manage programs outside traditional blue-bloods.
5. Illinois cracks the Top 25:
Illinois wraps up the list at 25 with an 82. It’s a notable return for a program that hasn’t been in the national limelight recently, signaling EA’s nod to their resurgence .
—
🎮 Gameplay Implications
a) Dynasty Mode
Choosing Alabama or any of the 88-rated teams gives you championship-caliber rosters but similar talent—making coaching and strategy decisive. Want more challenge? Programs in the 84–82 range offer realistic rebuilding narratives and recruiting arcs.
b) On-Field Balance
With no team rated above 89, there’s no “unbeatable” squad. This rating structure emphasizes skill, play-calling, and in-game adjustments over sheer stats. Expect closer, more suspenseful matchups, even in the early season.
c) Recruiting & Ultimate Team
Roster depth mismatches will feel less jarring, meaning recruiting, player development, and careful roster building become even more critical. In Ultimate Team or franchise modes, strategic team-building matters more than choosing an exclusive top-tier squad.
📊 Headlines From EA
1. Offense Dominators:
Texas, Penn State, Ohio State, and Arizona State lead offense with 91 overall .
2. Defensive Behemoths:
Alabama’s defense tops at 96, followed by Texas and Penn State (94), and Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan, Oregon, LSU, Texas Tech (92) .
Alien defenses suggest heavier gameplay where stopping power may outweigh high-octane offense.
🔮 What This Means for Fans
Big-name fans (Alabama, Ohio State, etc.): Expect thrilling gameplay with powerhouse squads—but even top teams won’t run away with wins easily.
Underdog fans (e.g., Duke, Illinois): Enjoy a fair yet challenging sandbox—make smart program decisions and watch your team climb.
Competitive spirit: The 88‑tie breeds simulation chaos—every play, coaching choice, and matchup matters when squads are so evenly matched
Conclusion
EA Sports’ College Football 26 overall Top 25 narrates a compelling story: Alabama stands tall, but the rest of the college football elite is tightly packed just beneath. Expect immersive coaching trenches, dynamic recruiting battles, and exciting gameplay where no game is a foregone conclusion.
This ranking structure encourages both fans and gamers to rethink team choice, strategy, and challenge level. Whether leading Alabama to further glory or rebuilding Illinois from the inside, every journey is nuanced, competitive, and ultimately rewarding.
