I don't think it is a lot to ask them to include features that they had in a last-gen version of the game. If they could accomplish in-game saves on a version of the consoles with significantly less resources, it shouldn't be an issue to do it this generation at all. It is just another in a long line of examples of EA not caring what people really want.
I agree with you that I would trade in-game saves for a bug free Madden experience. Sadly, I have ZERO faith in that occuring. This year is all presentation and gimped online season play for Madden. Granted, I appreciate the presentation upgrades, but a shiny turd is still just a turd.