I don't really have anything of value to offer as far as your question goes, but look at those runners taking off across the cement.

It's just because it's new sod, the Brown areas are maybe a bit higher, or have less root mass, or whatever. It should all be even in a few months if you leveled properly. Don't worry, you didn't do anything wrong.

Those runners are similar to what I experienced, the edges of celebration are serious growth zones. I think it gets stimulated when the plant is chopped

And yes, you can raise the height by one notch if you like, more leaf is better the first year

I think it gets stimulated when the plant is chopped

Should be called Hydragrass :-)

Make a note for your next battle against the hydra--Cutting & pulling is counterproductive