I started a Rome campaign yesterday, and I was wondering why the game doesn't start with 272's consuls on the map? AFAICT, the only generals at the start with imperium are the faction leader (a proconsul) and the default heir (a praetor). But for continuing the war against the epirotes or protecting the north from those pesky gauls, it seems like you should use the consuls for that.

Our esteemed proconsul should be able to spend his final days enjoying his influence and respect in Rome, not off fighting in campaigns better suited for younger men. Especially since, if he should die in battle or from old age, that leaves only one character with imperium in the early game, when the other guy eligible for praetor may not win his election.