hi chu chu
it is a reasonable question. many factors come into play. One is that the tail mounted engines , when reversers are deployed, interfere with airflow over the rudder, reducing the aerodynamic effectiveness.
But you are right the lever arm is much shorter on a tail mounted engine so it would be less assymetric than a wing mounted engine.
HOWEVER most wing mounted engine planes now a days use higher bypass engines and their thrust reversers are a different type than on the MD80. They are inherently less effective.
So it is an apples or oranges comparison.
I have flown 9 and 737 with the same engines and same types of reversers and that is a better comparison. Prefer the tailmounted engines.
the main topic on this forum seems to be the blanket statement about using assymetric reverse thrust for directional control. IT is tricky to do and you either have the touch or don't and the blanket statement covers those who don't.
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO PUSH FORWARD ON THE CONTROL WHEEL to insure the nosewheel is in firm contact of the runway as it aids in directional control.
IT IS Important to note that the maximum EPR (engine pressure ratio) was exceeded early on in the landing.