Eh, it being the full week before means you have less of the store rushing and aggression. It's much better (and safer) for the retail staff, and it gives you more time for a good deal. I don't see the down side.
We both know you are gonna have the same manic masses marauding malls and stores and the deals you have on the run up pale in comparison to that on the day. It's just something companies do to drum up more business...its no better than valentines day at this point