Tulane was one of the highest-rated Group of Five teams in the ’25 edition of the game, and I think they’ll still be one of the best in ’26. Although Tulane had some major roster turnover this offseason, they still have plenty of talent, and I expect them to be highly rated once again.
Not only did UNLV make an elite coaching hire in Dan Mullen this offseason, but they also brought in a ton of talent. UNLV was one of the best GO5 teams in all of college football last year, and with a lot of their roster coming back, they should be highly rated amongst all the GO5 programs.
Although Curt Cignetti left for Indiana before the 2024 season, James Madison was able to continue their FBS success under Bob Chesney last season. With a lot of talent coming back, their roster looks very good heading into 2025, and the game should reflect that.
Not only was Navy an elite GO5 program last season, they also are bringing back some of their most important pieces including quarterback Blake Horvath. Navy made it clear to the college football world that they were a high-level program and I think EA has been taking notes as well.
Boise State had a first-round bye as a GO5 program in the first-ever 12-team college football playoff, so even without Ashton Jeanty, I expect them to be the best GO5 team in the game. The Broncos are ranked 9th in terms of returning production in 2025 as well, which is another reason why they should be first on this list.
