I think rating brings up the problems you mention. However, rank is a very nice broad stroke to use for the basic screening of games I am talking about here. I think the breakdowm would be similar to the Masters/Vet/Rookie breakdowns of the three start of year tourneys, except officers would be a larger pool than the elite 16 chosen for the Masters.

I suggested Officers/Noncoms/Rookies. These would change as the year goes on and bonus points would be based on the rank at the time of the gamestart.

All this means is that if you are going for a bonus score, you should play someone in the same broad catagory as yourself. Or, if you plan to bid and play at 20, then play who you like.