There's a big difference between now and then, first of all, they didn't start from scratch at any time in the last four years they were still using the old commentary tech and engine, i.e. Cris calling Gus "Tom" still. Commentary wise the issue hasn't been the commentators themselves, but rather the engine that was running the commentary and the stitching of it.
This is also the first Madden that they have had the commentators record together, HUGE deal.
Just wait for Madden 13 to get finished and you will notice the difference.