The games are taking about 45 minutes to an hour to complete right now with 15 minute quarters and the accelerated clock. About what it takes me to finish a game of Madden. If you use the in game play creator, it can take longer.
The game is pretty realistic. One of the designers that helped us with some of the playbook stuff is a Dolphins fan and we had a bet going that he would have a hard time making the playoffs by year two. He tried with a few careers but kept struggling each time. Finally, he signed a bunch of free agents in the offseason like Asante Samuel and then traded away Jason Taylor for some extra picks.
After some great draft picks and more free agents the next year, he went 9-7 in year 2. He also mentioned that while it was tough, it really felt like he earned that wildcard berth.