EA's 2010-2011 release in their NCAA Football series focuses on recreating the unique nuances of each of the 120 schools in the NCAA. Playbooks, stadiums, mascots, traditional team strengths, tendencies, and even locker room rituals are included with as much accuracy as possible. Games also use a complete ESPN broadcast package, including graphics, fly-ins, and replays. Broadcasters Kirk Herbstreit, Brad Nessler, and reporter Erin Andrews offer commentary and sideline updates throughout each game. The lighting engine has also been improved for all on-field conditions.

Gameplay improvements target A.I. and physics. The Locomotion and Pro-Tak systems from the Madden series moves to NCAA in this release, basing the success of the running game and tackles more on physics and momentum, and less on arbitrary player stats. Players can also use the analog sticks for precision running, with direction on the left, and spins, jukes, and stiff-arms on the right. A.I. has been updated to run its assignments more effectively, and utilize new routes and concepts like double-blocking.

Also in NCAA 11 is expanded use of social media and online integration. Players can run all aspects of their Dynasty online, and keep up with their team's performance. The Team Builder returns from NCAA Football 10 with expanded options; allowing players to go online and build a team from uniform color to on-field logo, and then share their teams online for public or private download. Players can also use the StoryBuilder online feature to package clips, shots, and results from games into news stories that can be published on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Multiplayer uses EA's Online Pass system, and requires a code from a new copy of the game, or one purchased through XBL/PSN, to use any of the online features.