I hear things like this from Patriots fans a lot. When a blatantly biased call goes to their way, they'll say something like "well they've earned it." But no. They've earned Super Bowl rings, MVP trophies, first ballot hall of fame entry, gobs of endorsements, and eternal New England admiration. But they haven't earned the right to play by a different set of rules. That line of thinking shouldn't be acceptable to anyone, especially to the people who are constantly on the wrong end of it. It's reality, but that doesn't make it excusable.
To the first point: he extended the ball and then pulled it back before his knee hit the ground. It's the same as if he gained the first down and then willingly ran backwards behind the first down marker before being tackled. Forward progress does not apply to backward motion if it is not caused by a defender.
Second point: He tried to turn around, but the bear hug got in his way.
Third point: True.