Football Library · Plays
Counter· 5v5 Flag
Misdirection run. The back jab-steps strong-side to hold the LBs, then takes the handoff going BACK weak-side behind pulling blockers (typically the backside guard + tackle). The 'counter' is the defense's pursuit moving the wrong way. Best vs defenses that flow hard to initial back action.
Coaching breakdown
Counter — Misdirection run. The back jab-steps strong-side to hold the LBs, then takes the handoff going BACK weak-side behind pulling blockers (typically the backside guard + tackle). The 'counter' is the defense's pursuit moving the wrong way. Best vs defenses that flow hard to initial back action. Run from Spread Doubles. The handoff sets up the play; see the OL + receiver bullets below for each player's job.
- @QB: take the handoff, press the LOS, and read the playside LB — if he scrapes, cut back; if he fills, bounce.
- : counter — false step, then follow pullers to the back side.
- : 3-yard hitch inside — quick stop, eyes back to the QB on rhythm.
- : 3-yard hitch inside — quick stop, eyes back to the QB on rhythm.
- : 3-yard hitch inside — quick stop, eyes back to the QB on rhythm.
Ball flow:
- Snap: @QB hands to 2 yards right of center, 4 yards behind the LOS.
When to call it
Against an aggressive front that over-pursues to the back's initial step. The misdirection at the snap pulls defenders away from the actual play side.
Common mistakes
- Fake step too lazy; defenders read it. Must be a hard one-step fake to sell the strong-side action.
- Pulling blockers trip over each other (tackle); need clean pull-around timing — backside guard pulls first, tackle follows.
- Back doesn't widen enough after the jab; the counter path should bend BEHIND the blockers' wash.