Not looking for an op-up. I'm flying with my wife and she's going to be sitting next to me. We'd like to get the two-on-the-side seats, which we can do if we book now. With any luck I'll be able to score my beloved 30A at the gate as well.

Al lesser alternative is to book A and C seats on the 744 and hope that my status will keep the middle blocked. There is risk in this scenario, though.