Meh...
There are plenty of defensive plays and tools to stop any offensive play. It comes down to understanding what your opponent is going to do and what the best method is to stop it. There is a reason why the winner of Madden tourneys isn't just a random guy that runs all the same plays as everyone else. Running still sets up thyme pass, or vice versa. Managing the game clock still matters.
Gameplay and such may not be sim, but the reason the so many gamers do like the game is that is still a fun competitive game. Truth be told, the competitive guys think it is just as lame of a sim as you do. But it is still fun, and rewards skill and strategy.