The problem isn't that dribbling is too easy, the problem is the CPU is too passive. It's an issue wih the default programming and gameplay settings that's easily remedied. Both sliders and CCTs completely fix all the various gameplay problems you and the OP are pointing out. Create custom tactics and adjust the way different CPU teams play; raise CPU defensive pressure so that you can't just dribble thru the entire CPU team; and use the sliders -- speed and accel specifically -- to customize the difficulty level to whatever works for you.
In essence the sliders cancel out the difficulty levels this year anyway. I normally play FIFA on Pro difficulty. But this year, with just a few slider adjustments, I'm having challenging and fair games on Legendary.