The anticipation is building for EA Sports College Football 26, and Oklahoma football is making waves with the announcement of its player ratings. Leading the charge is quarterback John Mateer, a Washington State transfer, who tops the list with an impressive 91 overall rating. This detailed breakdown showcases not only the players’ skills but also highlights the potential impact they could have on the upcoming season.
At 91, Mateer showcases exceptional prowess on the field, having been a finalist for the Manning Award and a semifinalist for the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award during his time in Pullman. In his redshirt sophomore season, he started all 12 games, racking up 3,139 passing yards while maintaining a solid completion rate of 64.6%. With 29 touchdowns and just seven interceptions, it’s clear that Mateer knows how to command a game. His standout attributes in EA Sports College Football 26 include an impressive awareness score of 94 and an injury rating of 92—two vital indicators of his reliability on the field.
Following closely behind, running back Jaydn Ott has earned a commendable rating of 90 overall. After transferring from California, where he accrued 385 rushing yards and scored four touchdowns, Ott is geared up to make a significant impact in Norman. His ability to contribute not only on the ground but also through the air—with 24 receptions for 222 yards—shows he can be a versatile weapon for the Sooners.
Defensive back Robert Spears-Jennings, rated 89 overall, emerged as a key player in the previous season. He featured in all 13 games, leading the team with notable defensive stats, including 66 tackles and ranking among the top in forced fumbles nationally. His tenacity and athleticism will surely serve as cornerstones of the Sooners’ defense.
Matching Spears-Jennings at 89 overall is defensive end R Mason Thomas, a force who was recognized both as a second-team All-SEC selection and earned accolades like the SEC Defensive Player of the Week. His performance in crucial matchups, including victories over top-ranked teams, demonstrates his ability to rise to the occasion—vital for a defense needing star power.
The list continues with sophomore defensive back Eli Bowen at 88 overall, who made a significant impact in his freshman season, evidenced by his selection as an ESPN Freshman All-American. His combination of tackling ability and coverage skills begets a promising future.
Next up is wide receiver Deion Burks, also rated at 88 overall. Despite battling injuries that sidelined him for a portion of the season, Burks made a loud statement when he was on the field, making history as the Oklahoma player with the most receptions in their first five games. His potential to be a game-changer is undeniable.
The defensive line adds Gracen Halton at 87 overall, with performance highlights that include being named SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week. His ability to disrupt plays is reflected in noteworthy statistics, including multiple sacks and forced fumbles.
Linebacker Kip Lewis, another 87 overall, has proven himself with standout weeks, earning accolades that underline his knack for making big plays, including crucial tackles and interceptions.
Damonic Williams, also statured at 87, has established a promising first season with the Sooners. His solid tackle numbers and impactful plays were vital to the team. Joining him in the backfield is running back Jovantae Barnes, rated 86 overall. Though his season was hampered by injury, his contributions proved significant when healthy, underscoring the depth and potential Oklahoma possesses.
With the game set to launch on July 10, Sooners fans have every reason to be excited. This ratings list not only showcases the individual talents of these players but also paints a picture of a team ready to compete at a high level. As we gear up for the season, keep an eye on how these ratings translate onto the field and shape the future of Oklahoma football.
