Jeff
I think their opinion that the a/c remained whole is meant to include not shedding parts, a Stall and descent to the Ocean. If overspeed, and the potential for elevator failure, spoiler separation, and VS loss, well you see their problem. A kind of Reverse postulation that precludes airframe failure, which would be my goal if I had an opportunity to claim it for a principal in the accident. I think that more is included in the BEA's assessment than is justified in evidence.