I would think that would create a significant increase in a thrust reverser ground strike depending on the touchdown attitude. Seem to remember no thrust reverser selection on the -200 until derotating.
Yep, seems like you needed nose gear compression on the -200 to pop the reversers. The 737-300 and later uses RA or weight on wheels if RA is not available I believe.
You can use reverse on the 75 when the bogie tilt sensors are actuated, you don't have to wait for the nosewheel to come down.