i avoid one-stop direct flights on NW, too. (unfortunately, they just made the 5:30p BOS-MEM flight a direct flight to IAH. ick. i liked that connection.)

the old 4pm LAS-MSP-BOS flight was the worst for upgrades. and try explaining to an agent at the MSP worldclub that you need to check in for your ATL-PDX segment. the worldclub agents are generally good, but an agent in MSP can get confused when MSP doesn't appear anywhere in the PNR.

every now and then, EUA will do the right thing, and i'll get a thru seat assignment. those are the times i get an equipment switch or crew change and have to get off the plane anyway.