Simulating the season using EA Sports College Football 27
With the 2026 college football season approaching, we turned to EA Sports College Football 27 to see what the computer predicts for the year ahead. By running 26 full season simulations, we gathered data on playoff contenders, trophy winners, and the coaching carousel.
Miami emerged as a consistent force, appearing in the playoff across 24 simulations, while Ohio State secured the most national titles by winning six times under the leadership of virtual Ryan Day. The simulations show significant parity, with 42 different programs earning at least one playoff bid throughout the project. While the Big Ten led in total playoff appearances, the SEC maintained a strong advantage during postseason play.
The simulation also provided a look at the wilder side of college football, including a scenario where Boise State captured a national championship as a 10-seed and another where Ole Miss shut out LSU 20-0 in the title game. Heisman Trophy outcomes were varied, with Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss leading all players with six wins in the simulated timeline.
Off the field, the coaching carousel proved equally unpredictable. Dabo Swinney frequently found himself on the move in these scenarios, landing at high-profile programs like Texas or Alabama after leaving Clemson. Additionally, the transfer portal remained a constant factor, with high-profile players like Bryce Underwood regularly switching teams, proving that even in simulation, the sport remains difficult to forecast.