Texas’ Steve Sarkisian, Texas A&M’s Mike Elko, and Houston’s Willie Fritz are officially featured coaches in EA Sports’ College Football 26.

The excitement surrounding the upcoming release of EA Sports’ College Football 26 continues to build, especially among fans and followers of Texas college football programs. The recent announcement that Steve Sarkisian of the University of Texas, Mike Elko of Texas A&M, and Willie Fritz of the University of Houston will be included as featured coaches in the game has only heightened anticipation.

This inclusion not only showcases the prominence of these coaches within the sport but also reflects the growing significance of Texas football on the national stage. Let’s dive into what this means for the coaches, their programs, and the fans who will be playing College Football 26 this year.

The Growing Popularity of College Football 26

After a hiatus of nearly a decade, EA Sports’ College Football video game series is making a much-anticipated return with the release of College Football 26. The game aims to deliver an authentic and immersive college football experience, complete with realistic stadiums, updated rosters, and enhanced gameplay features.

One of the most exciting elements of the game is the inclusion of current head coaches from top programs, allowing players to take the helm of their favorite teams under the guidance of real-world leaders. Including high-profile coaches from Texas-based schools speaks volumes about the talent and competitiveness within the region.

Steve Sarkisian – Leading Texas to New Heights

Steve Sarkisian has been at the forefront of Texas football since his hiring as head coach in 2021. Known for his offensive ingenuity and dynamic play-calling, Sarkisian has sought to revitalize the Longhorns program after years of rebuilding.

Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy centers around a high-powered offense that blends innovative passing schemes with a balanced rushing attack. Under his leadership, Texas has shown promise and competitiveness in the fiercely competitive Big 12 Conference and beyond.

Sarkisian in College Football 26

Fans of Texas football will now have the opportunity to take control of Sarkisian’s Longhorns, running the plays and managing the team exactly as the real coach would. The game features Sarkisian’s likeness, play-calling tendencies, and team strategies, providing an authentic experience for gamers.

Sarkisian’s inclusion symbolizes Texas’ storied football tradition and the university’s commitment to maintaining its status as a national powerhouse.

Mike Elko – Building a Defensive Legacy at Texas A&M

Texas A&M’s Mike Elko has gained recognition for his defensive acumen since being named head coach in late 2024. Known as one of the country’s top defensive minds, Elko’s approach emphasizes discipline, versatility, and aggressiveness.

Before taking the helm at Texas A&M, Elko served as the Aggies’ defensive coordinator and has been praised for his ability to develop players and implement complex defensive schemes that confuse opponents and force turnovers.

Elko in College Football 26

With Elko’s strategic mindset, players controlling Texas A&M in College Football 26 can expect a defense-oriented experience that rewards smart decision-making and calculated aggression. The game’s AI and playbooks reflect Elko’s style, offering users a taste of what it’s like to manage a defense-first program in a powerhouse conference like the SEC.

Elko’s addition to the game underlines the rising prominence of Texas A&M football and the Aggies’ potential to compete for national championships under his leadership.

Willie Fritz – The Grit and Determination of Houston Football

Willie Fritz has been a transformative figure at the University of Houston since taking over as head coach. Known for instilling toughness, resilience, and a blue-collar work ethic, Fritz has led the Cougars to several successful seasons and bowl appearances.

Fritz’s coaching style blends strong fundamentals with a balanced offensive attack and physical, aggressive defense. His teams are known for their competitiveness and ability to overcome adversity.

Fritz in College Football 26

The inclusion of Fritz in College Football 26 allows players to embody the grit and determination synonymous with Houston football. The game captures the spirit of the Cougars’ program, from their playstyle to their iconic home stadium atmosphere.

For fans of the American Athletic Conference and Houston’s program, having Fritz represented authentically in the game is a source of pride and excitement.

What This Means for Texas Football Fans

Texas football fans have long been passionate and deeply invested in their programs. The opportunity to engage with these teams and their coaches in a highly realistic gaming environment is a significant milestone.

College Football 26 will allow fans to simulate seasons, test strategies, and live out their dreams of coaching their favorite Texas teams. Whether it’s running Steve Sarkisian’s high-powered offense, implementing Mike Elko’s tough defense, or embracing Willie Fritz’s resilient spirit, players can experience the unique strengths of each program.

Impact on Recruiting and Program Visibility

In addition to enhancing fan engagement, the inclusion of these coaches in College Football 26 can have positive implications for recruiting and program visibility.

High school athletes who play the game and experience the unique qualities of Texas, Texas A&M, and Houston football may develop greater interest in these programs. The game serves as a platform to showcase coaching styles, stadiums, and traditions that might otherwise be unfamiliar to young recruits.

This virtual exposure can translate into increased national attention and potentially more competitive recruiting classes for these schools.

The Broader Significance for College Football

The announcement of Steve Sarkisian, Mike Elko, and Willie Fritz being featured coaches highlights the strength of Texas as a football state. The Lone Star State has produced some of the nation’s best players, coaches, and programs, and this inclusion is a testament to that reputation.

Moreover, the return of College Football video games brings renewed enthusiasm to the sport, bridging the gap between virtual and real-world football. Players can now step into the shoes of their favorite coaches and make strategic decisions that mirror the complexities of real college football.

What Fans Can Expect in College Football 26

Beyond coach likenesses, College Football 26 promises a robust gaming experience with updated rosters, realistic stadiums, and improved AI. The game will feature:

• Realistic playbooks reflecting each coach’s system
• Authentic stadium atmospheres with crowd noise and traditions
• Player progression and recruiting modules
• Enhanced graphics and physics for immersive gameplay

Texas fans will appreciate the attention to detail in capturing the nuances of their teams, from the Longhorns’ burnt orange branding to the Aggies’ 12th Man tradition and Houston’s spirited crowd.

The inclusion of Steve Sarkisian, Mike Elko, and Willie Fritz in College Football 26 is more than just a fun feature—it’s a celebration of Texas football’s rich tradition and future promise. As fans gear up for the game’s release, they can look forward to a unique way to connect with their favorite programs and coaches.

Whether you’re a die-hard Texas Longhorns supporter, an Aggie looking to see Mike Elko’s defensive prowess in action, or a Houston Cougar proud of Willie Fritz’s leadership, College Football 26 offers a thrilling new avenue to experience the game.

The countdown to kickoff just got more exciting.