Yes, there is a way, but it's iffy. You could have your friend refer you and after you're approved ask Chase to honor the higher offer. In my experience, Chase always has agreed to do so. YMMV.
Just to make sure I understand, your suggestion is to accept the link from my friend, then call Chase and say: “I got this 70,000 offer in the mail and I want to know if you will match it?” Have you had this work for Co-branded cards or only for Chase’s own cards?
RNE, asking you to let us know what you decide to do and how it goes. Good luck.
Trying to decide what to do, but I will let everyone know what I decide and what happens. I still think that despite being pre-approved, I will be denied the card as every time I have applied for a Mileage Plus card (under First Chicago and then for the original Chase one), I have been denied.