game freeze up on load?

[poleposition27 0]

I don't know if I've seen this problem described, and it's  something that's just occurred the last day or 2.   I insert the disc, start the game, and when the rotating EA logo comes up, it freezes and the game crashes to the desktop.  Any ideas if this is system or game?  I just read about taking out some downloads, maybe I'll see if that works.  But any kind of assistance would be appreciated!

[CaptCity 4,669]

poleposition27

Does the problem exist with or without any plugins being loaded? Can't say I've heard of plugins causing crashes that early in the startup process, but who knows? Also, have any changes been made recently to your computer system? Any hardware or drivers updates?

[poleposition27 0]

I have to assume the plugins are loaded, as it usally takes about 60 seconds or so to get to the startup screen under normal circumstances. Nothing changed on my system lately.