UTEP, NMSU stoked to be part of EA Sports College Football 25’s long-awaited return

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Friday marked the worldwide launch of ‘EA Sports College Football 25’, one of the most highly anticipated video games to hit the market.

“I’ve gone as far as to say I think this [College Football 25] will be the most popular sports video game of all-time.” UTEP quarterback Cade McConnell said.

Electronic Arts said 2.2 million unique players played ‘College Football 25’ during the early access period that began on Monday for those who pre-ordered the game.

‘EA Sports College Football 25’ is the first entry in the series since 2013’s ‘NCAA Football 14.’

EA Sports was forced to discontinue the franchise back in 2013 amid athlete lawsuits , but with a name, image, and likeness deal now in place, the game is back after more than a decade.

Starting in February, EA Sports allowed FBS Division I players from all over the country to opt in to the game. Player that opted into the game received a minimum payment of $600 and a free copy of the game.

“As soon as they said we could opt in, I opted in,” New Mexico State running back Monte Watkins said. “Before we even had the meeting where they were going to teach us how to opt in, I already did it.”

“Me being in a game. I would never turn down an opportunity like this.” UTEP linebacker Dorian Hopkins said.

All 134 FBS DI programs along with more than 150 stadiums are in the game. The Borderland’s two collegiate division one football programs and its respective stadiums are in the game: UTEP and the Sun Bowl, and New Mexico State and Aggie Memorial Stadium.

“The first time I loaded up the game and I saw it, I almost got goosebumps just seeing us run down onto the field at Aggie Memorial Stadium.” New Mexico State wide receiver Kordell David said.

“The Sun Bowl looked amazing,” Hopkins said. “I love the way that EA put UTEP on the map.”

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