True. But it is also the nature of the beast to play favorites (for whatever reason). The Xbox gets lots of flack for being owned by the monopolist Microsoft. Likewise, we have the payola theories predicated on the fact that reviewers have much to gain by being "nice" to Madden. Inertia is a powerful force for the "new kid on the block" to overcome. "Nature of the beast" isn't explanatory. Its an excuse.
A .8 shift is more than a small inconsistency. One need not look hard to find it and it warrants explanation. Does Madden's gameplay and franchise mode swamp ESPN that much? (I personally hope so.)