My take on it is that ROP only makes sense if one can attain at least gold status, considering the half priced awards and upgrade benefits, as well as the new mileage earning bonuses.
For people who fly less a program like UA seems to work better. Also, since TG has reasonable J and F fares, I would just as soon pay for my tickets and then redeem miles on a more expensive route not serviced by TG.
It seems odd to me that TG would structure its program so that it alienates passengers who fly less frequently.