I don't agree. I think your point is fair but with that much time, you still have a slight chance with a punt. Also, do you really think our offense was going to score twice anyway.
Most teams that have a better defense than offense make the same decision in that scenario. We are all used to an offense first strategy and a coach that did take offensive risk. That isn't likely to be the norm anymore.
Also, I'm fine with the let the time run out at half. If they had been on their 30 instead of 50, then you make them punt. Around midfield, you are very unlikely to get good field position and might mess around and give them a cheap touchdown or FG with very little upside.