I like the Harlan's Ribs recipe. I would change a couple of things, tho (they who know me are not surprised).
I'd put the dry rub on at least 4-6 hours in advance. Overnight would be best. Also, I would add some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. I think that I'd blend up the adobo and brush it on to the ribs before putting on the dry rub. Letting it all sit will let both the spicy and the sweet do their thing.
The smoked paprika may be smokey enough by itself if you are using a high quality, fresh product like from Penzy's,
https://www.penzeys.com/online-catal...24/p-1159/pd-s
Personally, I'd find some pear nectar (or crush up some to make your own) in place of the apple sauce, but I like my ribs a little sweeter.