Honestly? No, you can't.
The rule sucks, IMO. But the ref called it as it's written.
Here's my concern - since this isn't the first time this rule has been questioned and gotten attention in the NFL world, why didn't the receiver JUST HOLD ONTO THE BALL UNTIL HE STOOD UP. Learn the sport you play, understand the rules (especially the "controversial" ones and play by the rules.
I agree this rule is questionable, but no, again you can't say the rule is moronic, and then say the ref is incompetent (the ref, the guy responsible for following the rules) for abiding by it.
But I'm done here.