Playbooks

HB Counter Str

Singleback·Ace·12
CounterRun PlayPower Run
Likely unavailable in the playbook builder
This play belongs to no NFL team or scheme playbook, so it may not appear in the in-game builder.

Quick Reference

FormationSingleback
SetAce

In 1 playbook

Legends OffenseOffense

Breakdown

HB Counter Str is a power run play out of Singleback Ace 12 personnel that pulls a guard or fullback-type blocker across the formation to lead the HB through the play side gap. The line executes a counter blocking scheme, with the play side flowing down to create a wall while the pulling blocker kicks out the edge defender, forcing the HB to press outside before cutting up through the alley. This is a run play built to attack aggressive fronts and overpursuing linebackers, and the primary read progression starts with the pulling blocker's kick out block, then transitions to the natural cutback lane if the backside defenders overplay the counter action.

Defensive Reads

Watch the play side defensive end and outside linebacker before the snap, since a squeezed alignment or crashing tendency signals the kick out block will win easily and the HB should press hard outside. Key the middle linebacker's first step after the snap, if he flows hard toward the initial line movement without reading the pulling blocker, that opens the cutback lane for a user controlled backside cut. Identify run blitz fronts pre-snap by checking for extra defenders stacked inside the tackle box, since gap exchange calls and contain defenders sitting on the counter path will blow this play up before the pulling blocker can get outside. Post-snap, look for a user controlled linebacker sitting in the hole or lurking behind the line, since a disciplined defender who reads counter action and stays home can beat the blocking scheme even if the pulling guard executes his assignment. Against zone heavy fronts with linebackers reading gaps rather than flowing to the ball, expect a tighter running lane, so patience behind the pulling blocker matters more than raw speed to the outside.

Usage Tips

Run this play when the defense shows a fast flowing front or heavy edge pressure, since the counter action punishes linebackers who key the initial line movement and flow hard to the play side gap.

Use pre-snap motion or a quick glance at the defensive line alignment to confirm you are not walking into a run blitz look with extra defenders stacked in the box, since counter plays lose value against gap exchange fronts.

Pair HB Counter Str with HB Stretch or Inside Zone earlier in a drive so linebackers start flowing hard on outside zone action, then hit them with the counter misdirection to gash the cutback lane once they overcommit.

Combine HB Counter Str with PA Ctr Waggle or PA Counter later in the same series, since both plays use the identical initial backfield action, and defenders who bite on the run fake become vulnerable to the play-action boot off the same look.

Stick to early down calls like first and ten or second and short, since the counter's slower developing blocking scheme needs extra time to set up and is not ideal in short yardage or obvious passing situations where defenses sell out against the run.

Other Plays in Ace