The anticipation surrounding the 2024 College Football season was palpable, but few could have predicted that not one, but two freshman wide receivers would rise to national stardom. Alabama's Ryan Williams and Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith have captivated fans with their exceptional performances and are now the featured cover athletes for EA Sports' College Football 26. This latest edition of the beloved video game marks the return of the franchise after its hiatus since NCAA Football 14. Fans can look forward to the game's release on July 10, with early access available starting on July 7.
In an exclusive interview with Bleacher Report, Ryan Williams shared his overwhelming excitement upon learning he would be featured on the cover of College Football 26. "It's incomparable to anything you can even imagine," Williams expressed. "It's one of those moments where any words I say won't be able to describe the feeling. Even just thinking about it gives me chills. It's a blessing." Williams didn't shy away from friendly competition, humorously claiming, "I'll smack him in the game," referring to Jeremiah Smith, and added that they should set up a match.
Williams and Smith’s shared cover is a fitting tribute to their remarkable abilities as wide receivers. Both players have consistently delivered jaw-dropping performances throughout the season. Smith's ability to execute stunning one-handed catches and Williams' electrifying runs, including a game-winning touchdown against Georgia, have made them relentless forces on the field. Their camaraderie is evident as they support each other from afar. "We always keep in touch, texting each other. It's a very friendly competition," said Williams, highlighting the bond that fuels their drive to excel.
While both athletes have enjoyed individual success, their paths diverged during the postseason. Smith led the Buckeyes to the national championship, showcasing his skills with five touchdowns in the College Football Playoff against formidable opponents like Tennessee and Notre Dame. Williams, on the other hand, is eager for a chance to meet Smith on the grand stage. "We've talked about it for sure. That's the goal," he stated, emphasizing the excitement of potentially facing each other in the upcoming national championship game.
The Alabama Crimson Tide faced a disappointing season in 2024, missing the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the first time, following losses to teams like Vanderbilt and Oklahoma. Williams described this outcome as a significant motivator for the Tide heading into the 2025 season. "It's definitely been a driving force," he emphasized. "That's unlike Alabama. That's not the standard. It burns a fire even talking about it." With upcoming nonconference challenges against Florida State and Wisconsin, Williams and his teammates are determined to reclaim their status among college football elites.
As the 2025 season approaches, questions loom over who will take the reins as the starting quarterback for Alabama. The competition is fierce among Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and highly ranked freshman Keelon Russell, who is a 5-star prospect and the No. 2 overall player in the 2025 recruiting class, according to 247Sports. Williams praised Russell's exceptional skills, stating, "He's one of the best quarterbacks I've seen." The competition among the quarterbacks has elevated the team's practice sessions, ensuring that each player brings their best.
In addition to their college careers, both Williams and Smith have their sights set on future opportunities, including the chance to represent the United States in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics for flag football. "I one-thousand percent would love to participate in the 2028 Games," Williams expressed. "Just being able to represent the United States... I'm trying to put some stuff on tape." As the excitement builds for the upcoming college football season and beyond, fans will undoubtedly keep an eye on these rising stars.
