Playbooks

RPO Counter Stick

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CounterRPOStickStick ConceptRun PlayPass PlayPower Run

Quick Reference

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Breakdown

RPO Counter Stick pairs a Counter run with a Stick concept read on the backside, giving the quarterback a true run/pass option based on the box count and second level defender flow. The offensive line executes the counter blocking scheme with the backside guard and tackle pulling to seal the edge, while the Stick concept sits underneath with a flat route, a stick route sitting at five yards, and a corner route to clear space. This is an RPO built to beat aggressive run fits, and the primary read progression is: identify the alley defender or force player crashing down on the counter action, then work the stick route or flat as the immediate pass alternative if that defender squeezes the run lane.

Defensive Reads

Watch the play side linebacker depth before the snap, since shallow linebackers are more likely to crash on counter action and open the stick throw. Identify single high versus two high safety shells, since single high defenses with aggressive run support are the easiest to exploit with the pass option. Key the defensive end and outside linebacker on the play side edge, since a hard crash inside on counter action opens the flat route immediately. Beware of user controlled defenders sitting in the stick window or lurking underneath, since a disciplined user linebacker can jump the stick route and cut off the primary pass read. Cover 3 sky and cover 1 with an overaggressive box are the shells this beats most consistently, while a two high shell with disciplined linebackers staying home can take away both the run and the stick read.

Usage Tips

Check the box count before the snap and count defenders inside the tackles versus your blockers to decide whether you are keying run or pass.

If the linebacker over the stick concept flows hard to the counter action, pull the ball immediately and hit the stick route sitting in the vacated zone.

Use this play on early downs like first or second and short to medium yardage where defenses are more likely to sell out against the run.

Combine this with Mtn Stick or Stick from the same set to keep the defense guessing between full dropback stick concepts and the RPO version tied to counter action.

Pair with RPO Read Cntr or RPO Peek Stick later in a series once the defense has adjusted its linebacker depth, since they attack similar run fits with different pass options attached.

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