[redmarkYankees]

I don't think graphical/interface customisability will suffer at all, it will probably be enhanced, as CM4 and CM03/04 are XML interfaces with a strong 'modding' community.

There is also a strong tradition with CM of 3rd party editors and player updates, though these have not been as integrated into the game itself as in OOTP. Hopefully (perhaps overly optimistic), SI will be the ones who learn something in this respect.

After a little consideration, I think the main innovations will be deeper gameplay, with player personalities and interaction (players complaining to the press about your strategy, players disliking each other), some layout/graphical enhancements (e.g. graphical depth chart, even customisable situational defenses/shifts etc).

i.e. more of a "management" experience, which may not be to the liking of those who like to sim rapidly, or online leagues.