Read Counter Bash

Watch the play side defensive end or outside linebacker before the snap, since his crash or contain decision dictates whether the read hits inside or bounces. Heavy box counts and downhill linebacker flow at the snap are a strong indicator the defense is selling out to stop the counter, so expect the cutback lane to open behind the pullers. User controlled defenders sitting on the counter path or spying the mesh point can blow this up quickly, so respect any user movement toward the backfield. Odd fronts and 3-4 alignments with a heavy nose can clog the counter lane, making this less effective against stacked interior fronts. Overaggressive edge rushers who crash inside every snap get exposed on the keep read, so track defensive end tendencies across the series.