The much-anticipated EA Sports College Football 25 video game, released in July, marks a triumphant return after a decade-long hiatus. This revival has college football fans across generations eager to dive into the game, which now features real players for the first time in its history.

Back in the 2000s and early 2010s, the game featured generic versions of real players, a practice that led to legal battles and eventually shelved the series in 2013. These legal issues played a significant role in establishing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights for collegiate athletes in 2019. With NIL now in place, the game's return became possible, allowing all participating players to receive compensation and a complimentary copy of the game.

In the new game, all FBS programs competing in 2024 are included, along with most of their rosters. To celebrate the return, Hoosiers On SI ran a simulation of Indiana's 2024 season opener against Florida International University (FIU) at Memorial Stadium, and the virtual showdown was far more intense than anticipated.

The simulated game, played with seven-minute quarters and AI-controlled teams, concluded with Indiana narrowly defeating FIU 30-27. A 26-yard field goal by Derek McCormick as time expired secured the victory for the Hoosiers, but the close scoreline highlighted how competitive the game was, with FIU showing no fear against a Big Ten opponent.

Keyone Jenkins, FIU's quarterback, gave Indiana's defense a tough time throughout the simulation. Jenkins completed 14 of 18 passes for an impressive 340 yards and three touchdowns, consistently exploiting the Hoosiers' secondary for big gains. His performance included an 81-yard completion and several other long passes, demonstrating his ability to find and connect with his receivers deep downfield.

However, Indiana's defense managed to capitalize on crucial mistakes by Jenkins, forcing two interceptions in the fourth quarter. The first of these was a game-changing pick-six by James Madison transfer cornerback D'Angelo Ponds, giving Indiana a much-needed boost when they were trailing. The second interception, by JMU transfer linebacker Jailin Walker, set up Indiana's game-winning field goal.

Despite FIU's success through the air, Indiana's defense completely shut down their ground game, holding the Panthers to just 13 rushing yards. This defensive performance was pivotal, as the Hoosiers were outgained 353-242 in total offense and 479-341 in total yardage, yet managed to keep the scoreline close and ultimately secure the win.

On the offensive side, Indiana's new quarterback, Kurtis Rourke, who transferred from Ohio University, had a solid but unspectacular outing in the simulation. Rourke completed 13 of 20 passes for 172 yards and one touchdown. While his performance was steady, it was clear that Indiana's success in the simulation was more about avoiding turnovers and capitalizing on FIU's mistakes rather than any offensive fireworks.

The game started with FIU jumping out to a 10-0 lead, catching the Hoosiers off guard. However, Indiana responded with 17 consecutive points, highlighted by a 1-yard touchdown run from Kaelon Black, a 50-yard field goal from McCormick, and an 8-yard touchdown catch by Myles Price. The Panthers quickly answered back, tying the game at 17 just before halftime.

In the third quarter, FIU reclaimed the lead, going up 24-20. Indiana's defense then stepped up when needed, with Ponds' pick-six swinging the momentum back in the Hoosiers' favor, putting them up 27-24.

But the drama wasn't over yet. FIU tied the game with a field goal and regained possession with just under two minutes left on the clock. As the Panthers appeared poised to steal the victory, Indiana's defense came through once again. Walker's interception near midfield set up Indiana's final drive, which ended with McCormick's game-winning field goal as time expired.

As with any video game simulation, it's important to take the results with a grain of salt. The simulation featured only one penalty, which is unlikely in a real game. Additionally, some player substitutions and depth chart decisions made by the AI wouldn't happen in real life, such as the inclusion of injured guard Nick Kidwell.

Despite these quirks, the simulation offered a fun preview of what might happen in the upcoming game. While it may not be a perfect prediction, it certainly adds to the excitement leading up to the actual season opener.

Final Score:

FIU: 27

Indiana: 30

Key Statistics:

    Total Offense: FIU - 353 yards, Indiana - 242 yards

    Passing Yards: FIU - 340, Indiana - 172

    Turnovers: FIU - 3, Indiana - 0

    Rushing Yards: FIU - 13, Indiana - 70

Notable Players:

    FIU QB Keyone Jenkins: 14-18, 340 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INTs

    Indiana QB Kurtis Rourke: 13-20, 172 yards, 1 TD

    Indiana Kicker Derek McCormick: 3/3 FG, including the game-winner

In the end, Indiana's opportunistic defense and clutch kicking carried them to victory in a game that could have easily gone the other way. While it's just a simulation, it highlights the unpredictability and excitement of college football, both in real life and in the virtual world of EA Sports College Football 25. Use enough College Football 25 Coins, it can be used to unlock special content, customize teams, and enhance the gaming experience, adding another layer of excitement for you. Happy game!

MMOexp College Football 25 Team