Ah yes, as us old-schoolers call it "Moving the Chains"!!! Like you said, this is in the game stats, but have never seen it in any overall league statistics. Is crucial, especially in real life football. The ability to grind down and lean on a defense, imposing an offense ' s will, late in the 3rd and 4th quarters....mmmmmmmmmm... that is Big Boy Football. LOL.
However, as far as MFN goes, I would concur with setheric and his posting. Positive plays, move the ball forward, slowly sometimes if needed, but avoid negative plays. Unless you have an offense that can overcome those. Play to your team's strengths. Rules , coaching style, play familiarity, being consistent but not predictable. ..it all is part of the mix.