Coach Mark Berokoff is never one to back down from a fight. Whether it’s battling opponents on the field or challenging the powers that be off it, the Syracuse head coach is as fiery as they come. But this time, his target isn’t a rival team or an officiating crew—it’s EA Sports and their controversial new player ratings in the latest edition of their NCAA Football video game.
The ratings for Syracuse in the game have caused an uproar within the program, with Berokoff leading the charge against what he calls a "disrespectful and inaccurate" portrayal of his players. Despite the Orange showing significant promise in the past few seasons, EA has dropped Syracuse’s rankings from an average team to one that is now considered "below average"—a change that Berokoff believes could have a far-reaching impact, especially when it comes to recruiting and player morale.
The Fallout From EA’s New Rankings
As of the release of the latest NCAA Football game, Syracuse’s player ratings have taken a sharp dive. From a mid-tier team that had shown potential to build into something competitive, the Orange have now been relegated to the ranks of the also-rans. This dramatic shift has not sat well with Berokoff, who voiced his frustration in an emotional press conference on Tuesday.
"This is ridiculous," Berokoff said, his voice steady but visibly angry. "We’ve worked hard to build something here, and EA just comes in with these ratings like we’re some scrub program. It’s an insult to my players, my coaching staff, and our fans. We’ve earned our spot, and we’re not going to let anyone take that away from us."
According to Berokoff, the new ratings for Syracuse in EA’s game not only undervalue the team's talent but also misrepresent the program’s trajectory. What was once an average team now finds itself struggling to gain respect in the digital world, and Berokoff isn’t about to let that slide.
The Fight for the "Average to Below" Players
It’s not just about Syracuse, though. Berokoff has framed this battle as part of a larger issue within the college football video game community. In a heartfelt statement, the head coach explained that his fight wasn’t solely for his own team but for all the "average to below-average" players out there who are routinely overlooked in the ratings system.
"We have players who may not be five-star recruits, but they have heart, they have grit, and they’re busting their butts every single day," Berokoff explained. "Those guys deserve better than what EA has given them. Our program may not be the flashiest, but we fight. I will fight for all those players out there who are getting disrespected in this game. Our voice must be heard."
To make a statement, Berokoff has announced that he will kneel on the first play of every game this season, as a symbolic gesture against the unjust ratings and the lack of respect his team and others like it have received. It's an act that blends protest with principle—reminding both players and fans that he will not let the game’s rankings define his team’s identity.
"This is a protest, but it’s also a message to EA and the NDL. We're not going to sit quietly while our players get put down. They deserve better. The people who get overlooked and undervalued, they need to know that someone has their back. This isn’t just about Syracuse, it’s about all the programs out there with players who may not have the glitz and glamour but who show up and give it their all."
The NDL's Responsibility
Berokoff’s frustration also extends to the National Dynasty League (NDL), the governing body that oversees college football video games and their simulations. According to the Syracuse coach, the NDL has a responsibility to ensure that the rankings are fair, accurate, and reflective of a team’s true abilities.
"The NDL needs to step up and take responsibility for this," Berokoff said. "If they don’t fix this, it’s not just Syracuse that’s going to suffer. There are teams out there who deserve more respect. The game needs to reflect the real-world effort, not just the hype around certain programs. If we can’t get the recognition we deserve in a video game, how are we supposed to get it in real life? It’s all tied together."
The latest ratings have caused serious concern across the college football gaming community, with many players and coaches echoing Berokoff’s sentiments. While some players have taken to social media to voice their frustrations, Berokoff is calling for real action, hoping to bring attention to the issue and push for change in the way the rankings are decided. I will have a meeting with my lawyers and the Rules Czar, Shel next Saturday. I have had many calls and texts from current NDL coaches praising me for the fight against the Game goals given.
A Promise to Keep Fighting
In the face of adversity, Coach Mark Berokoff has made one thing clear: he will never stop fighting for his team. Whether it’s for better ratings or better opportunities, Berokoff is committed to making sure his players get the recognition they deserve.
"We will keep fighting. We will keep pushing, and we’ll never back down," Berokoff stated resolutely. "This game, this season, this program—they will not be defined by EA’s rankings. We will be defined by our heart, our effort, and the belief that no matter what the world says, we are capable of greatness."
While Berokoff’s protest may be seen as a bold move, it’s emblematic of his broader philosophy: never let anyone or anything diminish your worth. For the coach and his players, it’s not just about the rankings on a video game—it’s about fighting for respect, fighting for the underdogs, and never giving up on the pursuit of excellence, no matter the odds.
In a season filled with uncertainty, one thing is clear: Syracuse’s fight for respect—on and off the field—has only just begun. And with Coach Berokoff at the helm, they’re ready to take on whatever challenges come their way.
###### Disclaimer- Coach Berokoff has been in the NDL since season 1, this is a fun way to have fun, this is not real, please realize this is a JOKE....I am 50 years old playing a video game for fun.......
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
WHOS ONLINE:
icrashedmycarr, jaguars 19, xLiQx and 10 Guests in the last 5 minutes Legend: NDL Admin | Conference Commish | Media Team | NDL Coaches
NDL Hall of Fame:
659 Coaches Newest Member: Shotty_mac90
HOME
Live
Discord