Madden usually sounds good conceptually (player sense, improved AI, better pass blocking, etc) but the track record for proper implementation and functionality has been consistently poor.
I had to laugh when you mentioned the home crowd cheering for the D on third down. All I could think of is the home crowds on M25 booing a challenge that is decided in their favor, as happens ALL THE TIME.
I will reserve final judgement until they can showcase the finished product (hopefully minus the legacy issues as well) but I remain highly skeptical.
I will say that the living worlds trailer they released went beyond my low expectations based on the information that was previously showcased and dissected here. Perhaps there are more small surprises in store.