Garrett, borrow or rent the DVD's and start from Season One, I think you will love it. They do a pretty good job setting up the series, from the movie, in the pilot. That explains how/why Daniel came back from Abydos, also how they came across Teal'c, etc. Also a lot of great episodes and fun...
I'm enjoying the season. They give a lot more meaning to Daniel having been previously ascended and why he's back in mortal form, to fight the Ori, with his knowledge of ascension.
I liked the Merlin tie-in. It's interesting to see various old Earth mythos tied-in to the Goa'uld and Ancients. IMHO, Ben & Michael do not look that much alike, definitely would be able to easily tell them apart, even without the beard.
Can't wait to watch. I taped Friday's show but I'm thinking about waiting until I have the first 3 episodes taped, so I won't have to wait a week between each part. Did watch Atlantis, it was good.