Featuring a wide range of out-of-position players and experimental builds, the promo aims to shake up the meta-but not everyone is convinced it hits the mark.

At the center of the discussion is one of the most intriguing cards released so far: Brad Smith. Known for his versatility, Smith's new quarterback card pushes the limits of what a dual-threat QB can be in CFB 26. But does it actually deliver in-game? And more importantly, is this promo a step forward for Ultimate Team-or just more of the same?

Let's break it all down.

The "What If" Concept: Creativity vs. Practicality

The idea behind the "What If" promo is simple: take players and imagine them in completely different roles. That means wide receivers playing running back, defensive backs shifting into offensive positions, and hybrid athletes being pushed into new archetypes.

Brad Smith perfectly embodies this concept. In this promo, he's available in multiple versions-quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and even defensive roles. On paper, that sounds exciting.

In practice, however, there's a major limitation: you can only use one version of the same player in your lineup at a time.

This restriction significantly reduces the creativity the promo promises. Instead of building a full "Brad Smith offense," you're forced to pick a single version, limiting the experimentation factor.

That design choice has become one of the biggest criticisms of the promo so far.

Brad Smith at Quarterback: A Physical Monster

Let's focus on the main attraction: Brad Smith's quarterback card.

From a raw stats perspective, this card is absurd:

 99 Speed

 99 Throw Power

 Elite Change of Direction (99)

 Strong physical attributes across the board

This immediately places him among the fastest and most dynamic quarterbacks in the game. If your playstyle revolves around mobility, improvisation, and breaking defensive containment, this card is built for you.

Abilities Breakdown

The chosen setup includes:

 Gold Shifty-Enhances movement and agility in the open field

 Off Platform (Tier 2)-Improves throwing accuracy outside structure

 Ball Security (Tier 1)-Reduces fumble risk

 Adrenaline (Tier 1)-Boosts stamina and performance under pressure

These abilities reinforce his identity as a run-first, improvisational quarterback. He thrives when plays break down and becomes especially dangerous in scramble situations.

Gameplay Impressions: Electric but Imperfect

In live gameplay, Brad Smith feels exactly how you'd expect-a playmaker.

Strengths

 Elite Mobility: He explodes out of the pocket and can outrun most defenders.

 Broken Play Potential: Even poorly designed plays can turn into big gains thanks to his speed and agility.

 Open-Field Dominance: Once he gets past the line of scrimmage, he's extremely difficult to stop.

There are multiple moments where Smith simply takes over a drive, weaving through defenders and turning nothing into something.

Weaknesses

However, the card isn't without flaws:

 Fumble Risk: Despite Ball Security, he can still cough up the ball in high-contact situations.

 Throwing Consistency: While his stats look elite, his release and timing aren't as smooth as top-tier passing QBs.

 Blocking Limitations: On designed runs or option plays, support blocking can sometimes fall apart, limiting his effectiveness.

This creates a clear trade-off: you gain elite rushing ability but sacrifice some consistency in the passing game.

Scheme Fit: Why Utah Playbook Shines

Brad Smith truly comes alive in the Utah offensive playbook. The system emphasizes:

 Option plays

 QB runs

 Spread formations

 Quick reads

This allows Smith to maximize his strengths while minimizing his weaknesses. Instead of forcing him into a traditional pocket passer role, the scheme lets him operate in space and make dynamic plays.

In this context, he feels like the perfect quarterback for that system-arguably the best possible fit.

How He Compares to Other Top QBs

While Brad Smith is undeniably fun, he doesn't exist in a vacuum. Other top-tier quarterbacks still hold strong positions in the meta.

Where Smith Excels

 Best pure runner at the QB position

 Elite for players who rely on mobility and improvisation

 High ceiling in skilled hands

Where Others Have the Edge

 Faster or smoother throwing animations

 More consistent deep-ball accuracy

 Better suited for pass-heavy schemes

This creates a clear distinction: Smith is a scheme-dependent superstar. In the right system, he's elite. In the wrong one, he can feel limited.The Don Brooks Card: A Quiet Standout

While Brad Smith steals the spotlight, another card worth mentioning is Don Brooks' out-of-position safety.

At 6 feet tall with 99 speed and strong all-around stats, Brooks offers excellent versatility-especially when used as a sub-linebacker. His ability to contribute in coverage and pass rushing makes him a valuable defensive piece.

Unlike some of the flashier cards in the promo, Brooks stands out for his practicality.

Promo Issues: Glitches and Limitations

Unfortunately, the "What If" promo isn't without its problems.

Duplicate Player Restriction

As mentioned earlier, you cannot use multiple versions of the same player. This limits creativity and reduces the overall impact of the promo's concept.

Kaden Proctor Glitch

One of the more frustrating issues involves Kaden Proctor. When placed in a receiving position, he cannot be hot-routed-meaning you're stuck with the default play design.

This makes the card far less usable than intended, especially in competitive play where adjustments are critical.

Gameplay Highlights: The Rollercoaster Experience

Using Brad Smith feels like a rollercoaster.

One moment, he's breaking multiple tackles and sprinting downfield for a huge gain. The next, he's fumbling in a critical situation or missing a key throw.

That unpredictability is both his biggest strength and weakness.

 Big Play Potential: Game-changing runs and highlight-reel moments

 Risk Factor: Turnovers and inconsistent passing

For some players, that volatility adds excitement. For others, it introduces unnecessary risk.

Meta Impact: Where Does This Promo Stand?

The "What If" promo doesn't dramatically shift the meta-but it does introduce new playstyles.

 Encourages run-heavy offenses

 Promotes creative player usage

 Adds variety to lineup building

However, the limitations and glitches prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Final Thoughts: Fun but Flawed

The "What If" promo in CFB 26 is a mixed bag.

On one hand, it delivers unique, NCAA Football 26 Coins, creative cards like Brad Smith that genuinely feel different to use. On the other, it's held back by design restrictions and technical issues that limit its impact.

Brad Smith himself is a standout-an electric, high-upside quarterback who thrives in the right system. He's not the most consistent option, but he's easily one of the most entertaining.

If nothing else, this promo proves one thing: when CFB 26 leans into creativity, it has the potential to be something special. It just needs to remove the barriers that stop players from fully embracing that creativity.