In a moment that electrified both the college football and gaming worlds, EA Sports has officially released its player ratings for the long-awaited “College Football 26” video game—and at the very top of that prestigious list sit two Ohio State Buckeyes: wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs. The two elite athletes have been named the top-rated players in the entire game, a distinction that not only highlights their immense talent but also cements Ohio State’s presence as a powerhouse both on the field and in the digital arena.
The return of EA Sports’ College Football franchise has been one of the most anticipated events in recent gaming history. With nearly a decade passing since the last installment of the beloved series, fans have been clamoring for an updated version that captures the modern essence of college football. Now, with real player names, likenesses, and ratings being featured for the first time ever, the excitement has reached a fever pitch. Among the thousands of athletes included in the game, it’s Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs who stand tallest—both literally and figuratively.
Jeremiah Smith, the dynamic freshman wide receiver, was already a household name before stepping foot on the field at The Shoe. A former five-star recruit and the top-ranked player in his class, Smith arrived in Columbus with sky-high expectations. But instead of buckling under the pressure, he has only flourished. With a combination of size, speed, and hands that remind fans of NFL All-Pros, Smith’s impact has been immediate. EA Sports gave him a stellar overall rating that reflects his dominance and projected stardom, making him the most lethal offensive weapon in the game. Gamers will no doubt flock to the Buckeyes to take advantage of Smith’s game-breaking ability.
On the defensive side of the ball, Caleb Downs brings balance to Ohio State’s digital dynasty. The sophomore safety transferred from Alabama and wasted no time proving his worth in the scarlet and gray. Widely regarded as the most complete defensive back in college football, Downs is a rare combination of intelligence, physicality, and instincts. EA Sports’ decision to make him the highest-rated defender in the game speaks volumes about his national respect and the fear he instills in opposing offenses. Whether it’s roaming deep in zone coverage or crashing down in run support, Downs is the definition of a game-changer.
Together, Smith and Downs represent a rare occurrence in the EA Sports world—two players from the same team occupying the highest echelons of the game’s rating system. It’s not just a nod to their individual brilliance, but a bold statement about the strength and status of the Ohio State football program. In a sport defined by talent, depth, and legacy, the Buckeyes now find themselves with a digital roster that mirrors their real-world dominance.
For Ohio State fans, this news is more than just pixels and ratings—it’s a validation of everything they already knew. The Buckeyes are not only preparing for a legitimate run at a national championship this fall, but they’re also being celebrated on a national stage in ways that will echo across generations. For recruits watching from afar, seeing Smith and Downs atop the virtual mountain sends a clear message: Ohio State is the destination for greatness.
It’s also a remarkable moment in the broader context of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and how college athletes are now being represented in media. With EA Sports working closely with players to ensure fair compensation and accurate portrayals, the game sets a new standard for how student-athletes are included in the billion-dollar sports gaming industry. Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs aren’t just avatars on a screen—they’re trailblazers in a new era where college football intersects with technology, business, and pop culture.
The impact of this announcement has already sent waves across social media. Fans have flooded platforms like X, Instagram, and TikTok with clips, reactions, and countdowns to the game’s official release. Popular streamers and YouTubers have begun crafting content centered around Ohio State’s superstar duo, predicting virtual Heismans, creating dynasty modes, and showcasing highlights that make it seem like Smith and Downs are invincible. Within hours of the ratings reveal, the Buckeyes have become the most talked-about team in the game.
Coaches around the country are likely taking note as well. In recruiting wars that are as fierce off the field as they are on it, the visibility and popularity offered by being featured in a marquee video game cannot be overstated. For head coach Ryan Day and his staff, the timing couldn’t be better. With momentum building toward another elite recruiting class, the presence of two top-rated players in EA Sports College Football 26 is like rocket fuel for the program’s brand.
But while the digital accolades are fun and flashy, what sets Smith and Downs apart is their commitment to excellence in real life. Both are known for their tireless work ethic, high football IQ, and leadership qualities that elevate everyone around them. For Jeremiah Smith, being the top-rated player in the game is not just about hype—it’s about delivering on the field every Saturday. For Caleb Downs, it’s a continuation of his mission to dominate from the back end of the defense and inspire the next generation of players to aim higher.
This kind of national spotlight brings both opportunity and pressure. Every move they make on the field this season will be scrutinized by fans who are now invested in their digital personas as well. But if anyone can rise to the moment, it’s these two. They’ve already conquered the recruiting world, dominated headlines, and now sit atop the gaming universe. The next step? A national title.
EA Sports has always had a way of shaping conversations around football. With iconic titles like “NCAA Football 14” etched into the memories of millions, the franchise’s return was bound to be historic. And by placing two Buckeyes at the top of the player ratings, the developers have captured a storyline that resonates deeply: Ohio State isn’t just back—they never left.
As fans count down the days to the game’s release, one thing is clear: the digital age of college football has arrived, and it’s being led by two players in scarlet and gray. Whether you’re a diehard gamer, a recruiting junkie, or simply a lover of the sport, this moment is one to remember. The future of college football is fast, flashy, and fiercely competitive—and at the center of it all are Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs, the kings of College Football 26.
