I dont think the Pershing will be as great as everyone thinks.
Stats seem to agree.
Rifles are strong.. If people stop spending munitions on RNG nukes and get some bars, (Or bazookas) Why do you even need Rangers? Its just more expensive bleed and not needed.
I do like a good off map to dislodge while you attack or flank, but its all situational and reactionary.
I dont even care for the EZ8 as much, worse AI, better AT, more expensive.
Meat shield and Jackson is the way to go against heavy tanks. Regular sherman does just fine against P4. EZ8 still loses to panther, so.. (not that rifle company is not a great pick..)
Mines are always good, and the Pershing will prolly be decent, but imo its way over hyped. (which is not a bad thing - just dont go get ya'll hearts broken ok?)
Besides, opening strats you face, or maps, should still be the main decisons for commander selection. Pershing commander wont really 'help' against a ostrupen opening for example.
Sure, it will help you After you have faced the core strength of the strat, by adding a decent tank, with no late game call in for the ost.
Still, you possibly lost your early game and you are just boring yourself doing the same shit every game.