I agree with you here to a degree. However, it should be more tied to player positioning. That's probably my biggest gripe with Madden and is what leads to the controller throwing and smashing moments. The game scripts certain outcomes regardless of where the player is and the positioning. Often times you throw a pass to a receiver who clearly has inside position and separation and at the last minute, the DB warps in front with a shift and picks it off. Ratings may determine how the linebacker performs the tackle, technique and whether or not it slips through or whatever, but his positioning on the play should play a major role. I don't want to see the guy fly to the left and make a tackle if his momentum has him going right.
PLAYER MOVEMENT... That's the key.