First, there are no serious hills. Not one. But, if you were to convince yourself that the first 13-14 miles are flat, then you could maybe think there were significant hills.
Negative splits would be very difficult unless VERY intentionally done, and I don't think it (neg splitting) would necessarily be the best way to run it. The first 13 are a gradual downhill (with the exception of the first half mile or so), and the rest of the way is flat with a couple of rolling hills. There is one hill near the end that I think you are referring to, and it gets mentioned only because it is near the end. Seriously, though, if you are prepared at all, this hill (or any of the others) is nothing to be concerned about at all. Oh, and I am not sure where you got the furious downhill ending from... you only come down off the hill that I was just telling you about that is nothing special (and the last .75-mile after that is flat).
If I were running 6 pace, I would run 5:50-6:00 for the first half (and it will feel pretty easy), then I would continue on the 6s for the second half (but the 2nd half will feel harder than the 1st). So, it will FEEL like you're negative splitting a good bit, but as you mentioned the course doesn't really allow it. It's a good course that doesn't really necessitate any particularly noteworthy advice. If you're ready, you'll do well - and a nice wind out of the North would be nice.
Any way to know who you are out there?
Have a Hoof Whammy good time!