UTEP and NMSU are excited to be a part of the highly anticipated return of EA Sports College Football 25

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — On Friday, ‘EA Sports College Football 25’ was launched worldwide, one of the most anticipated video games on the market.

“I’ve even gone so far as to say I think this (College Football 25) will be the most popular sports video game of all time,” said UTEP quarterback Cade McConnell.

According to Electronic Arts, 2.2 million unique players played ‘College Football 25’ during the early access period that began Monday for those who pre-ordered the game.

‘EA Sports College Football 25’ is the first installment in the series since 2013’s ‘NCAA Football 14’.

EA Sports was forced to shut down the franchise in 2013 due to lawsuits from athletes, but now with a deal over the name, image and likeness, the game is back after more than a decade.

Starting in February, EA Sports allowed FBS Division I players from across the country to sign up for the game. Players who signed up for the game received a minimum payment of $600 and a free copy of the game.

“As soon as they said we could play, I did,” New Mexico State running back Monte Watkins said. “Before we even had the meeting where they were going to teach us how to play, I did it.”

“I’m in a game. I would never turn down an opportunity like this,” UTEP linebacker Dorian Hopkins said.

All 134 FBS DI programs and more than 150 stadiums participate in the contest. Borderland’s two Division One collegiate football programs and their stadiums participate in the contest: UTEP and the Sun Bowl, and New Mexico State and Aggie Memorial Stadium.

“When I first started the game and watched it, I almost got goosebumps when I saw us running onto the field in Aggie Memorial Stadium,” New Mexico State wide receiver Kordell David said.

“The Sun Bowl looked amazing,” Hopkins said. “I love how EA put UTEP on the map.”