RPUs and Companions - Do I Split PNR?

Sorry if this has been covered before, but I couldn't find the answer via search.

I am travelling with two no-status companions on the same PNR. I am waitlisted on the upgrade for the outbound flight with RPUs and want to keep E+ on the return. A question...if I keep the single PNR intact, will we be skipped on the waitlist if single seats open up in R? I'm hesitant to split the PNR, as they might be swept back to E-. Recommendations?

Thanks