NoHoverstop,
You are quite right - the Boeing design ran away out of control as they struggled with the basic lack of thrust and having the main engine in the wrong place (ie not at the rear of the aircraft). The number of jets and orifices increased, and they had to add a tail towards the end of the 'X' phase - although that, interestingly, was driven by the demands of the 'cat and trap' variant.
The LM design's ability to use the lift jets for control purposes, leaving them with just the two additional roll jets (which also generate lift) is extremely smart and minimises the additional complications associated with STOVL.
PPruners might like to note that UK engineers have led the joint industry teams on two of the main challenges with F-35, namely STOVL flight testing and propulsion integration.
Best Regards as ever,
Engines