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Quick Reference
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Breakdown
RPO Read Cntr is a run-pass option built off a counter run scheme out of Shotgun Split Slot Offset with 20 personnel on the field. The diagram shows the offensive line executing counter blocking to the right while a single flat/swing route bends out to the boundary and a shallow drag or arrow route works underneath, giving the QB a quick read against overpumped run fits or vacated flat coverage. The primary read progression is run first, checking the counter lane, then bounce to the flat route if the play side defender crashes down or an overhang defender bites on run action.
Defensive Reads
Watch the play side linebacker depth before the snap, if he is stacked tight to the box the counter lane will be crowded and the flat throw becomes the better option. Key the flat or overhang defender's first step after the snap, aggressive downhill run fits open the RPO throw instantly. Man coverage on the flat route with a defender sitting outside leverage can bait a bad pull-and-throw decision, so respect press or tight man alignment pre-snap. Zone shells with a linebacker sinking under the flat route and staying square to the counter action are the toughest coverage to beat with this concept, since it forces a true gap-run decision. Look for user-controlled defenders spying the counter lane or crashing down hard, since this signals an override of AI run fits and should push you toward the pass option immediately.
Usage Tips
Pre-snap, identify whether the defense is stacked with extra run fits inside or spread out in space, since this RPO thrives against base fronts that crash hard on run action.
Check the alignment of the flat defender or overhang linebacker before the snap, if he sits too far inside or blitzes off the edge, the flat route is an automatic pull and throw.
Use the RPO key (usually a linebacker or slot defender) to make your run/pass decision immediately after the snap rather than holding the ball, since hesitation kills both the counter timing and the RPO window.
Pair this play with Mtn RPO Peek Swing and Mtn RPO Peek Stick from the same set to keep defenses guessing between different RPO reads while your run blocking stays consistent.
Best used on early downs (1st and 10 or 2nd and short) when defenses are more likely to sell out against the counter run, and mix in RPO Zone Bubble later in a series to attack defenders who adjusted to this look.
