The example I have in mind ( a real one) was of a pilot out of currency flying as handling pilot with a mate. He screwed up on landing and wrote the aircraft off.
The PIC, very generously, said he had been the handling pilot. Fortunately there were only minor injuries but, due to the generosity of the PIC, the insurance paid out.
Luckily the 90 Day rule doesn't say the three landings have to be completed successfuly.
So, not only does the handling pilot not have a blot on his record, assuming that was his 3rd landing then
he is also (according to some) now current to take passengers.