Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
HB Counter U out of Shotgun Wing HB Wk Close is a gap scheme power run that pulls the backside guard and uses a lead blocker through the U hole to seal the point of attack. The diagram shows the offensive line stepping down and blocking inside gaps while the counter action sends the ball carrier initially away from the play call before he presses back downhill through the designed crease. This is a run play built to punish overaggressive linebacker flow and gap-shooting fronts, with the primary read progression starting at the pulling guard's block and the lead blocker's kick out or wrap, then to the first crease off their hip, and finally bouncing outside if the alley is clogged.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, identify whether the defense is in a base 4-3 or 3-4 look with linebackers stacked tight, since heavy box counts with aggressive linebacker flow are exactly what this play exploits. Watch the strong side defensive end and outside linebacker, if they crash hard down the line on the counter action the lead blocker should have a clean kick out for a big gain. Post-snap, key any user-controlled defender flying downhill on the fake flow, that lurk defender is the biggest threat to blow up the pulling guard's path if he reads counter quickly. This run gets shut down by disciplined defensive tackles who hold their gap and refuse to get pushed out of position, and by linebackers who stay square and read the mesh point instead of overrunning the initial flow. Be cautious versus overload blitz packages sent directly at the pulling guard's path, since a well timed A gap blitz can beat the puller before the lead blocker gets to the second level.
Usage Tips
Run this out of 12 personnel on early downs when the defense shows a base front with linebackers sitting tight to the box, since the counter action punishes downhill flow. Check the pre-snap alignment for the Mike and Will linebackers, if they are creeping toward the play call side before the snap you have a green light because the counter will hit behind their pursuit. Use HB Base and Outside Zone earlier in a series to establish inside and stretch run looks, then call HB Counter U to capitalize on defenders keying the same launch point and flow. Against odd fronts or heavy blitz packages, be ready to bounce the run wide off the lead blocker's kick out rather than forcing it through a clogged U hole. Pair this play with PA Cross or PA Y Over later in the game plan so the play-action rollout off a similar backfield look freezes linebackers who have been burned by the counter all game.
