Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
RPO Counter Stick out of Shotgun Deuce Close pairs a Counter run scheme with a Stick concept read on the backside, giving the QB a true run-pass option built off numbers and box counts. The blocking uses power counter action with a puller and lead blocker to attack the edge, while the Stick combo (quick out, flat, and hitch/curl) gives you an immediate pass answer versus light boxes or man coverage on the backside. This is a hybrid run and pass beater: the primary read is the count of defenders in the box at the mesh point, then progressing to the Stick concept's flat-to-curl read if you pull the ball out against overloaded fronts or aggressive linebacker fills.
Defensive Reads
Watch the play side linebacker depth and alignment pre-snap; if he is stacked tight to the line expecting run, the RPO pass window opens up big. Identify single high versus two high safety shells before the snap since single high defenses commit more defenders to the box, making the pass read more likely to hit. Post-snap, track the flat defender's reaction to the run fake; a hard crash toward the mesh point leaves the flat and curl combo wide open behind him. User-controlled defenders sitting in a lurk position over the Stick concept can jump the curl route, so be ready to check down to the flat or trust the counter handoff instead. This play struggles against fast-flowing linebackers in a Bear or heavy blitz front since the counter run gets strung out, and disciplined zone defenders who stay home on the Stick routes can take away both the pass read and the cutback lanes.
Usage Tips
Check the box count pre-snap before the snap and identify whether the defense has a light box (6 or fewer) that favors handing off the counter or a stacked box that should trigger the RPO pass read.
Use the flat defender as your key: if he sits on the flat route, throw the curl behind him; if he widens or crashes down on the run fake, hit the flat route for an easy pickup.
This play pairs well with Mtn Stick and Both Stick in the same set since all three show similar backfield action and route stems, forcing linebackers to hesitate on run fits and creating explosive play opportunities.
Best called on early downs (1st and 10, 2nd and short to medium) where defenses are more likely to sell out against the counter run, opening up the Stick concept read.
Against man coverage, hot route the backside stick receiver into a quick out if you see a corner playing tight outside leverage, giving you an instant win versus press man.
