Normally the only time the play is not whistled over under these circumstances is when the player is holding for a field goal or extra point. Is there a rule permitting it for a fake?

same reason the kicker is allowed to kick it without the holder being called down. same reason that if the holder catches it and drops it it is a fumble. it's weird but otherwise the holder would have to squat. no one wants to see that.

That game was a week ago.