I agree with the point in the post you linked to, it does have a standard blog feel. However, I think the old design, while perfectly functional, was a bit lacking compared to other news sites.

Hopefully the suggestions for improvements from the blogsphere will be noted by the designers an improvements will be made.

Two of my housemates that are typical web browsers (i.e. not designers) noted that it looks less professional, backing up what you suggested.