Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
HB Counter out of Pistol Ace Double Wing is a gap scheme power run that pulls the backside guard and tackle to lead through the hole while the double wing tight ends seal the edge and provide extra double team power at the point of attack. The HB takes a counter step away from the play call direction before pressing back downhill behind the pulling linemen, forcing linebackers to flow the wrong way on the initial misdirection. This is a run play designed to attack gap integrity, and the primary read progression starts with the pulling guard as the lead blocker, then bounces outside off the edge blocker if the play side is clogged.
Defensive Reads
Watch the Mike linebacker pre-snap for run blitz alignment, since a downhill blitz can beat the pulling linemen before they get set. Key the backside defensive end and 3-technique, they need to be handled or the counter's timing collapses instantly. If the defense is in a stacked front with extra defenders in the box, this play struggles to find a clean lane and you should check to a passing concept instead. Post-snap, look for linebackers reading the pulling guards and flowing hard downhill early, that spill technique kills counter runs by forcing the HB to bounce into unblocked defenders. Defenses that stay disciplined and do not bite on the counter step, especially with a sound edge set from the defensive end, take this run away entirely.
Usage Tips
Use pre-snap motion or a hard count to see if linebackers show run blitz tells or bite on the counter step. This play punishes over aggressive linebackers who flow hard to the initial fake, so call it against defenses that have been keying the strong side flow. Combine it with Mtn HB Power O and Strong Power to keep the same downhill run action while varying the blocking scheme and hole location, keeping the defense guessing between gap and power schemes. Pair it with Read Option or Split Zone off the same personnel look to force linebackers to respect misdirection every snap. Best called on early downs or short yardage when you need a physical, controlled gain and the defense is playing base fronts without extra numbers in the box.
