We've taken the route through Fort Erie/Buffalo a few times, but always go back to I75. I77,79,26 to 95 is about 60 miles shorter, but we find I75 a much easier drive, even factoring in Cincy and Atlanta. The hills (mountains) through West Virginia, Virginia seem to go on forever, constantly up and down, plus it is much more unpredictable in winter. Another concern going through Buffalo is that you are travelling to lee of Lake Erie, weather could be the same as you get from Georgian Bay.
On 75 there is only about 10-15 miles the north end of Tennessee, that have any significance.
I missed the fact that you are leaving at night, depending on time and weather, you should be in southern KY or TN for your first sleep, weather shouldn't be too bad.
Ken
