Top Choices for Dynasty Mode: EA CFB 26

We are 24 hours away from the second release (pre-orders) in the new age of EA College Football, and excitement is high again. Of course, nothing will match the feeling of last summer and that one-time-only moment, BUT the new features and tweaks that have been shown by streamers over the past week or so should have everyone itching to get into the mix.

The biggest change to me is the introduction of cross-play, now bringing another level to your online dynasty leagues that was missing the year before. As most CFB gamers know, this is first and foremost a game all about dynasty mode. Yes, Road to Glory looks improved, but the name of the game here is dynasty mode, full control over a school and its trajectory over 5, 10, 15, or even more years.

Now some of us are already locked into the college game and have a great idea of potential dynasty grabs this year. While others may be new and want in. First off, we all know you can’t go with the big guns like Ohio State, Alabama, Texas, and those likes.

But who do you go with then? Who gives the best all-around experience that you’ll love to play for season after season?

Well, I’ve put together a little Top 5 list for you to look over. I factored in:

• Rebuild difficulty

• Stadium

• Jerseys

• And lastly (maybe most important)... a cumulative fun factor

I’ll use the game’s difficulty levels to tier them: JV, Varsity, All-American, Heisman Tier. The list has some Power 4 teams, but is of course Group of 5 dominated.

Let’s dive in.

Delaware Blue Hens

Rebuild Difficulty: Heisman

These guys are going to be rough, a 1-star team or maybe even lower. This won’t be an easy turnaround. Recruiting will be a disaster, and if you’re too good in-game, your players may bounce in the portal for bigger and better opportunities.

Stadium: All-American

This is subjective, it’s small, but unique, and has just enough personalized flair to let people know they’re playing at Blue Hens Field. If you want a big-time stadium feel, this isn’t for you.

Jerseys: Varsity

They’ve got a cool traditional look, but only one helmet is not ideal. You can go all-blue, black, or white, but overall not much to get overly excited about style-wise.

Overall Fun Factor: All-American

I’d put them high on the list. They’re new to FBS, meaning the record books are yours to rewrite. They’re in C-USA, so a pathway to the ACC is there. And the “Blue Hens” name alone gives you juice. Beating your boys with the Hens? That’s next-level fun.

UMass Minutemen

Difficulty of Rebuild: All-American

In the past, this was hands-down Heisman tier, but with the ranking system here, they have to be a level easier than the Blue Hens. Now being in the MAC is a nice boost. Also I have a couple of former players and students on the squad too!

Stadium: JV

Super plain. Yes, it has a small feel, but overall very bland. Not much in terms of branding or character. Honestly feels like it’s in a random parking lot. Big stadium people, you’ve been warned.

Jerseys: All-American

Some really good variety here. Several helmets, blackouts, whiteouts. Not elite, but plenty to work with to keep your presentation fresh.

Overall Fun Factor: All-American

Being called the Minutemen is cool as hell. You're joining a new conference and can go in and dominate, breaking records. Biggest letdown? The stadium. But jerseys and name carry it high. UMass is a big win dynasty pick.

Mississippi State Bulldogs

Rebuild Difficulty: Varsity

Our first Power 4 team—and an ode to B-Walker (of Barstool Sports, not to be confused with basketball stat B-Walk). An SEC team with a bit of history but currently a bottom dweller. The grades are there, the portal is wide open, and if you can play? A quick turnaround is very doable.

Stadium: All-American

First big stadium on the list. SEC-level atmosphere, and presentation is unique, cowbells ringing when you get rolling. Homefield advantage will be strong.

Jerseys: Heisman

Yes, I’m saying Heisman. If EA includes their full selection, this will be a fun team. That white helmet with the script “State” across it? Timeless. You’ll wear it weekly and never get sick of it.

Overall Fun Factor: All-American

If you’re new to the game, this may be the best starter dynasty. Still challenging, but not like some of the Group of 5 gauntlets. Also, taking over the SEC with Miss. State might just earn you a follow from Brando on socials.

Missouri State Bears

Rebuild Difficulty: Heisman

Much like Delaware, they’re new to FBS and expected to be among the worst-rated teams. Making a bowl game and earning star recruits is going to take multiple seasons. This is a grind, but if you’re into long-term dynasties? This is it.

Stadium: All-American

Another small gem. Clean layout, great backdrop, and enough personalization to remind people whose field they’re on. End zone paint job with “Mo State” is a nice touch.

Jerseys: All-American?

The question mark is because we don’t know what EA included. If the full closet made it in? The potential is VERY high...white, silver, maroon, and black helmets (some with “Mo State” script). Could be a major sleeper.

Overall Fun Factor: All-American

Would’ve gone Heisman if jersey certainty was there. Still—high ceiling, and your goal is clear: crash the Big 12 or Pac-12 and take the Bears to the top.

Hawaii Warriors

Rebuild Difficulty: All-American

A very unique rebuild. Late-night games, back to the good ol’ days of Hawaii slinging it around. In the Mountain West, which has enough juice to make the CFB playoff with a conference title.

Stadium: Heisman

It’s in HAWAII. Enough said. Last year they were stuck with a generic barn, but now they have the real thing. Personalized presentation is expected.

Jerseys: Varsity

Just below All-American. The white helmet is sharp. Big miss? No throwback Rainbow Warriors uniforms, would’ve been a game-changer.

Overall Fun Factor: All-American

Hawaii is always a fun dynasty. You could storyline them into the Pac-12 and become kings of the Pacific. This is a team that deserves dynasty love.

Honorable Mentions:

• Coastal Carolina – Crazy teal field, great jerseys, fun name

• Washington – Purple & gold, the PNW, and elite presentation

• Rutgers – First CFB team ever, Jersey boys… for TJ!

• Boston College – New Balance unis? Unique fit

• New Mexico State – Out west, new Pac-12 school, Guns Up!

With 136 schools to choose from, you really can’t go wrong. The beauty of college football is that we all have teams we love...or hate.

These 10 might not be for you… or one of them might be just right to launch your CFB 26 dynasty.

This is a game for all of us to enjoy. Let’s post our wins, rep our schools, and take our programs to the Promised Land.