Why the NFL rule book is retarded: Volume 16453748

In the 4th quarter of today's Bears Texans game, the Texans completed a ten yard pass on third down in bear's territory. The spot on the field showed the Texans where 1/2 yard short of a first down, but an easy first down conversion to the 10 yard line. The problem was that the replay showed that the receiver was actually down at the 13 yard line, which would make it a 4th and 3 and the Texans would most likely go for the field goal. Given that this was a crucial moment in the game with both the score and time a factor, bear's coach lovie smith decided to challenge the spot the receiver was down by contact hoping to get the ball moved back to the 13.

Little problem, under the NFL rule book, the down by contact spot cannot be challenged if the play did not result in a first down. What the fuck!! There is a huge difference between 4th and 1 or 4th and 3. Actually it can be extremely important like affecting a team's chance of going to the playoffs. I have a question. Does this also apply to the offensive team? Can an offensive team not challenge the spot if the play didnt result in a first down? The only rational i can think of is that they dont want the game being delayed with useless replays, but each team only has 2 challenges. What does the NFL care how the fuck they decide to use their 2 challenges.

Earlier in the season, lovie smith challenged an incredible one handed catch by marty booker that was called incomplete on the field. He did this even though pass interference was called on the play and the bears would get the ball at the same spot on the field. There should be a rule in the rule book that a team cant challenge a play if it give you absolutely no advatage on the field. That was a waste of time. Two crucial yards in the 4th quarter of a playoff caliber game is not.