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How Good Will Ohio State Football be in EA Sports College Football 26?
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

With just under two weeks left until the launch of EA Sports College Football 26, fans are finally getting a deeper look at how the top programs will stack up, and Ohio State is right near the top.

EA Sports revealed Friday that the Buckeyes will enter the second installment of the revived series as the No. 3 overall team, with an 88 team rating. 

Offensively, they’ll carry a 91 overall—the third-highest in the game—while their defense ranks fifth nationally with a 92 rating.

The updated game, which follows last year’s reboot of the beloved NCAA Football franchise, is set to be released July 10

Alongside gameplay upgrades and a revamped homefield advantage system, EA Sports has begun rolling out team ratings, generating plenty of debate and excitement.

Ohio State’s defense is expected to be loaded, with names like Caleb Downs likely leading the way in individual ratings. 

All four were key contributors in 2024 and are expected to be anchors on a unit with high expectations this fall.

On the offensive side, early attention is already on freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. 

In a recent screenshot circulated from the game, Smith was shown with a 99 overall rating, though it remains unclear whether that number is truly final or part of early marketing buzz to promote their enhanced player development. 

Still, the Buckeyes are set to be one of the most-played teams in College Football 26—thanks to their loaded roster, strong ratings, and a fanbase that ranks among the biggest in the country.

Whether it plays out the same way on the real field this fall remains to be seen.

This article first appeared on College Football News and was syndicated with permission.

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