The OP has Marriott Gold status, which will allow him/her to check in early. Stay at one of the Marriott properties and have a memorable time.
As for Kacee's comment on upgrades, I have been 12 empty seats (36 out of 48 booked) go to 2 T-24. Upgrades are really a murky business. On a 15 - 17 hour flight, Business Class is a life saver, esp for these old bones.