The initial 'bite' from the hook would be caused by the fish trying to eject the hook.
This would be enough for the line to peel from the spool as the fish runs with no resistance.
Then as you strike this would set the hook down to the curve.
That's always been my thinking with running rigs anyway.
I don't think the lead will have much influence as the hooks initial grab happens before this.
As previously said, I could also be completely wrong though...