I don't get the logic. If I am in DUB, I would take whatever nonstop option home. As it happens, I have multiple trips this year to DUB from the US.

I have GE, but my priority is nonstop over connections. I don't care where the immigration and custom is being conducted (predeparture or upon arrival), the requirement would be nonstop.

Never had issues with preclearance airports OP has described...I have gone through almost all of them in existence.