You have brought up some interesting points!

I have worked for IHG and know that they not only match and offer a 10% discount, but they also fine the hotel for making a lower rate available to the public. Lower rates are good, as long as they are not made available to the general public (ex. group rates, priceline, ect).

I am now a Marriott Gold Elite member and have used their BRG several times with no problems. Answers usually come within 2-4 hours of submitting the BRG.

Once the competing rate had breakfast included. Marriott matched the lower rate, took off 25%, plus took off the breakfast. This made for a heck of a deal!