So if the generals are modded to a weaker unit, and then taking into account they have a unit of cavalry that is stronger than the general............ would I be less likely to see the general on the opening phase of combat.

Movement speeds in a way kills the A.I. even when support was alongside the cavalry it is quickly lost in the quick charge.

The other problem is I found a weak center is a killer for the A.I.

I've found it is usually best to put your worst units in the center. Well the A.I. hits your weakest units pushing them back and in no time the A.I.'s best units are surrounded on 3 sides