BREAKING: Best-Selling College Football Video Game to Feature Ohio State Buckeyes Athlete on the Cover for the First Time in Franchise History
In a moment that has electrified both the college football world and the gaming community, it has been officially announced that the cover athlete for the upcoming installment of the best-selling college football video gameโset to release in summer 2025โwill be none other than Julian Sayin, the rising star quarterback of the Ohio State Buckeyes.
This marks the first time in franchise history that an Ohio State player will grace the cover of the game, adding another chapter to the Buckeyesโ storied tradition and elevating Sayinโs already meteoric rise to national fame.
A Historic Honor for Sayin and Ohio State
Julian Sayin, a five-star quarterback from California and one of the top players in the country, has quickly become the face of the Buckeyesโ offense since transferring to Ohio State. Known for his rocket arm, calm under pressure, and elite football IQ, Sayinโs leadership and breakout performances in 2024 made him a fan favorite and a natural choice to represent the rebirth of the college football gaming franchise.
The gameโs publisher, EA Sports, confirmed the news in a press release and on social media, posting a teaser image of Sayin in full scarlet-and-gray uniform walking through the tunnel at Ohio Stadium with the caption:
โBuilt for the Big Stage: Julian Sayin x EA Sports College Football 25.โ
A Long-Awaited Return for the Game
After nearly a decade of absence due to licensing complications, EA Sportsโ return to the college football market with โEA Sports College Football 25โ is one of the most highly anticipated gaming launches of the year. Fans and players alike have been waiting for the chance to immerse themselves in authentic college football actionโwith real teams, stadiums, traditions, and now, real players thanks to NIL deals.
The inclusion of a current Buckeyeโand especially a quarterback of Sayinโs statureโon the cover only adds to the excitement.
โJulian Sayin embodies everything we wanted in a cover athlete,โ said EA Sports Creative Director, Marcus Wells. โHeโs talented, driven, and represents one of the most iconic programs in the country. Heโs the future of college footballโand this game.โ
A Win for Buckeye Nation
Ohio Stateโs selection as the face of the franchise is more than a nod to Sayinโs talent; itโs a recognition of the Buckeyesโ elite brand, on-field success, and national relevance. Ohio State consistently ranks among the most followed and profitable college football programs in the nation, and its inclusion at the forefront of the game is well-deserved.
โThis is a proud moment for our program and university,โ said Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day. โItโs great for recruiting, great for the brand, and a true honor for Julian.โ
More Than Just a Game
For Sayin, being chosen as the cover athlete is more than just a milestoneโitโs a symbol of his journey, commitment to Ohio State, and the love he has for the game.
โGrowing up, I played this game like everyone else,โ Sayin said. โTo now be on the cover representing Ohio Stateโitโs a dream come true.โ
With Sayin leading the charge and the Buckeyes looking like national contenders, both the real and virtual gridirons are set to run through Columbus in 2025.
