Yes, screws are fine for most applications, but at a right angle, if strength is critical, not the best option.
And that's why screwing in deck boards is good, but not for joists. Use nails for that instead, unless using engineered screws.
So I'd be curious if you'd do the same strength test but with nails: end nailing and toe nailing. After all you did end screws and pocket screws...
I'll add that your "Smashed deck repair hack job" is very interesting... the deck is attached by mortise and tenon joints? I keep reading about ledger boards and joist hangers, so I'm just... surprised? And you replaced posts in hole with essentially deck blocks! Very interesting... Thanks!
Did you consider doing any tests with a retaining dowel or some nails/screws through the mortice and tenon joint?