Counter Y

Pre-snap, check linebacker depth and alignment since stacked or crashing linebackers can blow up the counter timing before the puller arrives. Watch for safeties rotating down into the box, which signals run support and should push you toward a cutback read rather than forcing it into the called hole. Man coverage on the outside receivers holds up defenders long enough for the counter to develop, so this play benefits from man shells that keep corners locked up. Post-snap, key the play side defensive end and outside linebacker discipline since a squeezed end can force the puller to reroute and change the natural crease. Watch for a user-controlled defender flowing hard to the initial line movement, since that overpursuit is exactly what counter action is designed to exploit for a cutback lane.