EA Sports has spent much of the buildup advertising the new features to the game that should make it feel like an upgrade from the previous edition, giving hope the series can remain one of the top sports video games.

EA Sports' new college football video game has been released, with Michigan State unranked in the top 25. The highest-rated Spartan in the game is tight end Jack Velling with a rating of 88. Several other Spartans received ratings in the 80s, including players at various positions like wide receiver, punter, and linebacker.