The initial reactions would be very different if there was new animations with these graphics. It's hard to not feel like you're watching the same exact game that it's been the past few years. you have to really looks hard to see the changes because they are buried beneath these animations.
i do second your point about the general lack of intensity show by the defense. I don't know what the solution is for that. I guess it starts with the players appearing to be fighting hard to get off their blocks or trying to steer their lineman and close gaps.
There isn't a lot of wow there IMO but there are def. are some upgrades.