Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
Counter Y out of Singleback Bunch Ace is a gap scheme power run that pulls the backside guard and lead blocker through the hole to seal the point of attack. The diagram shows the offensive line blocking down while the fullback or wing TE kicks out the edge defender, and the HB takes a counter step before hitting the crease behind the pulling blocker. This is a run play, not a pass concept, so the primary read is the frontside double team and the pulling guard's block, then hit the hole off his hip once the edge is sealed.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, identify the strength of the defensive front and count defenders in the box since a stacked box with eight or more defenders is the biggest counter to this play. Watch for a fast flowing linebacker who reads counter action quickly and beats the puller to the hole, which kills the play before it develops. Man coverage on the perimeter with no extra run support tends to leave light boxes that this run scheme exploits. Post-snap, key the edge defender's reaction to the kickout block since a disciplined edge defender who stays home can blow up the pulling guard's angle. Look out for user controlled defenders spying the backfield or crashing down hard on counter steps, since that timing can be baited with a play action pass from the same formation.
Usage Tips
Check the box count before the snap and only run Counter Y into light boxes with six or fewer defenders in the tackle to tackle area.
Look for linebackers cheating downhill on run blitz alignments since the counter action and pulling guard can wall off overaggressive backers for a big gap.
Use manual control on the fullback or lead blocker to seat the edge defender and create a cleaner cutback lane if the AI blocking whiffs.
Pair this with PA Boot or PA Boot Rt from the same set so defenses that key run fits get punished by play action off similar formation and personnel.
This play works best on early downs like first and ten or second and short where defenses are not selling out to stop the pass.
