Top programs to rebuild in 'College Football 25' dynasty mode

Electronic Arts' "College Football 25," one of the most anticipated video games in recent memory, is set to be released on July 19, with early access available on Monday for those who pre-ordered a deluxe edition copy.

Due to the wide range of creativity it allows for, Dynasty Mode, where players can take control as the coach of any program they choose, will surely be one of the most popular features of the game. While some will choose to control powerhouses like Georgia and Alabama, another popular approach will be to build smaller programs into a juggernaut from the ground up.

With that in mind, here are five programs that "College Football 25" players should consider selecting to enjoy a more challenging Dynasty Mode rebuild.

Appalachian State

Appalachian State was still an FCS program the last time EA released a college football video game, so the Mountaineers will surely be one of the most used teams in Dynasty Mode and for good reason. The Mountaineers have everything needed for an enjoyable rebuilding experience, from their black and gold color scheme to a roster that could earn a top 25 ranking at some point in 2024. Not to mention that they play at Kidd Brewer Stadium, one of the most aesthetically pleasing venues in college football.

With the option to eventually move the Mountaineers from the Sun Belt to a Power Five conference, there are endless ways to make your rebuild more memorable. Perhaps along the way to qualifying for the College Football Playoff, you can add Michigan to the Mountaineers' schedule and try to replicate their infamous 2007 upset over the Wolverines.

Indiana

The Hoosiers haven't won a bowl game since 1991 and it might take several seasons for them to even appear in one if you choose to rebuild the program. Last season, Indiana went 3-9 overall and 1-8 in conference play to finish last in the Big Ten East. While the Big Ten is eliminating divisions in 2024, Indiana's schedule will have one of the more daunting schedules going forward since Oregon, USC, UCLA and Washington are joining the conference.

Nebraska

If you're looking to bring a program with a rich history back to its former glory while controlling a quarterback capable of winning the Heisman Trophy, Nebraska is the team for you. The Cornhuskers are on an upward trajectory, posting a 5–7 record last season, their first under head coach Matt Rhule. Due to the Big Ten's realignment, though, they will face a much more demanding schedule in 2024 and beyond.

Even so, this rebuild should be a bit easier with true freshman Dylan Raiola as your starting quarterback. Raiola, the son of former Nebraska center Dominic Raiola, was the No. 2-ranked quarterback and the No. 7 overall player in the class of 2024, according to 247Sports ' rankings. By the time Raiola's junior season rolls around in "College Football 25," he could have a chance to develop toward at least a 90 overall, which will be a massive asset as you try to lead the Cornhuskers to their first national championship since 1997.

Washington State

One of just two programs that didn’t join a new conference after the Pac-12 dissolved, Washington State offers one of the more creative rebuilds players can enjoy. Although the Cougars will play Mountain West Conference schools in 2024, players will be able to decide which conference should be Washington State's long-term home. The difficulty of this rebuild will depend on the conference players move the Cougars to, but this won't be an easy transition regardless of the destination, as Washington State finished 5-7 last season, including 2-7 in Pac-12 play.

Coastal Carolina

Boise State was a popular program among Dynasty Mode players in EA's "NCAA Football" series, mainly due to Albertsons Stadium's iconic blue turf. Many will likely opt to rebuild Coastal Carolina for a similar reason, given that the Chanticleers' home venue, Brooks Stadium, uses teal turf as the playing surface to complement the team's uniforms.

The Chanticleers, who joined the FBS in 2017, are another team that missed out on being in EA's last college football game, adding to the reasons why some may consider selecting them as their dynasty team.

Since making the jump from the FCS, Coastal Carolina has been one of the better Group of Five programs, making four bowl games while being named the Sun Belt Conference co-champion in 2020. This should provide a relatively safe floor to start with as you try to lead the Chanticleers to their first College Football Playoff berth.