Predicting the 2025 NCAAF Season: Insights from EA Sports College Football 26 Simulations

College Football Playoff Contenders

Over 25 simulations of the 2025 NCAAF season, 52 different programs earned at least one College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance. The most frequent playoff teams included Georgia (19), Penn State (19), Miami (18), Oregon (17), Texas Tech (17), and Texas (15). Notably, Clemson (14) and Duke (14) also secured CFP bids, while Notre Dame earned an at-large spot in 10 of the 25 seasons.

National Championship Race

Georgia and Penn State emerged as the frontrunners in the national championship race. Georgia reached the semifinals in 12 of their 19 playoff seasons, while Penn State made it to the title game nine times, winning five championships. Other notable champions included Oregon (three), Ohio State (two), and a mix of programs like Clemson, Florida, Illinois, Miami, Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and USC.

Heisman Trophy Winners

Clemson's Cade Klubnik was the standout Heisman Trophy winner, securing the award six times across the simulations. Georgia's Zachariah Branch also made a significant impact, winning the Heisman four times. Other notable winners included Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin, Tennessee's Joey Aguilar, and Oregon's Makhi Hughes.

Coaching Carousel

The coaching carousel saw significant activity, with notable changes including Clemson's Dabo Swinney replacing Kalen DeBoer at Alabama in 12 of the 25 simulations. Michigan moved on from Sherrone Moore in 12 seasons, often hiring Steve Sarkisian from Texas. Other coaching changes included Lane Kiffin moving to Clemson and Lincoln Riley returning to Oklahoma.

Group of 5 Representation

Boise State was the clear favorite among Group of 5 teams, earning CFP bids in 11 simulations. Southern Miss and Tulane also made the playoff four times each. Despite their strong showings, no Group of 5 team managed to win a national championship.

Conference Title Breakdown

The SEC race was highly competitive, with nine different programs winning the league title over the simulations. The Big Ten saw Oregon (10) and Penn State (8) dominate, while the ACC was led by Miami (11) and Clemson (6). The Big 12 was topped by Texas Tech (11) and Arizona State (4).

Transfer Portal Activity

The transfer portal was bustling with activity, with big names like Texas' Colin Simmons, Colorado's Jordan Seaton, and Louisville's Isaac Brown making moves. Texas quarterback Arch Manning entered the portal in three simulations, signing with Georgia twice and Alabama once.

Unpredictable Outcomes

Several simulations produced unexpected results, such as a 9-3 team winning the national championship and a 9-4 team making the playoff. In one extreme season, the CFP featured six SEC teams, including an 8-4 Auburn squad.

Conclusion

These simulations provide a fascinating glimpse into the potential outcomes of the 2025 NCAAF season. From playoff contenders to Heisman winners and coaching changes, EA Sports College Football 26 offers a comprehensive look at what could unfold in the coming season.