Yeah, it's been discussed numerous times, but a 2 score lead is not a "big lead"...especially in the 3rd quarter. I do have to point out though, every time this discussion comes up (whether it's for why someone didn't chew the clock or for why they did), I feel like the idea of "what happens when the other team gets closer" just gets completely overlooked. It's not like a 14 point touchdown was scored here. I'm sure after he scored to bring the lead to 7, you started passing the ball again, no?
So, at most, the "gentlemanly rule" would only affect one score. I know that still makes a difference. Just trying to add some perspective here. But yeah, if need be, I can pull up the old posts when DVO was specifically asking about a 2 score lead in the 4th quarter, and if it was still ok to throw. The answer was yes because a two score lead is just a TD and an onside kick away from being lost. The "benchmark" (not that I think this applies in all cases) was a 21 point lead in the 4th quarter was really when you need to start milking the clock.
But of course, if your opponent scores and cuts the lead to 14...you're back out of the "big lead" range again. I hate putting such specific numbers on things, because I really feel like it's just about awareness of what's happening in the game. If you're destroying your opponent, ease off the gas. If the game is close, keep playing your game. It's crazy to me when people seriously claim that they can't see the difference either way.