Playbooks
RPO Alert Counter is a run pass option built off a Counter run scheme, giving the quarterback a pre snap alert read on the perimeter before he even hands the ball off. The offensive line pulls to execute the Counter blocking, while the quarterback keys a flash read or alert defender to decide between the give and a quick throw outside. This is a run first RPO designed to punish light boxes and overaggressive linebackers, with the primary progression being box count first, then the alert defender's reaction on the snap.
Watch the middle linebacker depth pre snap since a linebacker sitting shallow in run fits signals a run blitz that can blow up the Counter action Identify single high versus two high safety shells, since single high defenses with an extra man in the box are prime for the pass side of the RPO Key the alert defender's first movement after the snap, if he crashes down hard on run flow that confirms the pass read is open Watch for user controlled defenders spying the backfield or sitting on the flash read, since a disciplined user defender can jump the RPO throw and bait a turnover This play struggles against heavy blitz packages with fast flow linebackers and press man coverage on the perimeter, since the pulling linemen get beat to the point of attack before the quarterback can react
Check the box count before the snap and if there are six or fewer defenders in the box, lean toward pulling the ball on the RPO read
Identify the alert defender pre snap, usually a flowing linebacker or slot corner, and watch his first step after the snap to decide give or throw
Use this play on early downs like first and second down when defenses are more likely to sit in base fronts and light boxes
Pair this with RPO Alert Power Hitches and RPO Walk Alert Power in the same set so the defense cannot key on one blocking scheme
Against teams that crash hard on run fakes, hot route the backside receiver into a quick out or slant to punish over pursuit
Mix in Power G from the same formation to keep the same backfield action showing on tape while disguising your RPO tag