Not sure why everybody hates them.

Keep in mind the original characters have a full trilogy of development that we have been familiar with for much longer.

Where as information on both Rey and Kylo Ren is currently open to be continued development in the next two movies. And The Force Awakens developed a good platform for them to work with narratively going forward.

Rogue One was good as well.

The Force Awakens - 5/10
Slick but anemic and cynical.

Rogue One - 7/10
Lethargic but finishes strong.

Both are objectively better than the original and prequel.

I haven't seen Rogue One, but I enjoyed The Force Awakens even if it was safe and familiar. I'm anxious to see what happens to Rey, Kylo Ren, Finn, Poe, Luke Skywalker, etc.

Both seem quite popular so "everyone" doesn't hate them.

I thought TFA was okay and strongly disliked Rogue One.