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Breakdown
Counter F out of Weak I Pro is a gap scheme power run play designed to pull blockers across the formation and create a natural running lane off tackle. The diagram shows the offensive line blocking down while the fullback and lead blocker pull from the play side to the backside, creating the counter action, with the halfback taking a delayed handoff and pressing the hole created by the pulling blockers. This is a run play, not a play-action or RPO, and the primary read is the halfback identifying the cutback lane once the pulling guard and fullback clear the point of attack.
Defensive Reads
Key the play side linebacker depth pre-snap because if he is sitting shallow he can read the counter action quickly and fill the hole before the pullers arrive. Watch for a fast crashing defensive end on the play side edge since he can disrupt the pulling fullback and force the halfback to bounce outside prematurely. If the defense shows a heavy blitz look with extra defenders stacked in the box, counter action can get strung out and lose its blocking advantage. Look for user controlled linebackers flowing hard to the play side pre-snap, since disciplined defenders who stay home against counter action tend to shut this run down. Zone fronts with light boxes and safeties rotated away from the run tend to give up the most yardage against this concept.
Usage Tips
Run this against defenses showing base fronts or light boxes where the linebackers are stacked tight and not spread laterally.
Watch the play side defensive end and outside linebacker pre-snap because a fast flowing edge defender can blow up the counter timing before the pullers get set.
Use manual control on the lead blocker to seal the alley defender and open the cutback lane for the halfback.
Pair Counter F with HB Gut or PA Boot to keep defenses honest since both plays start with similar backfield action but attack different areas.
Best called on early downs or short yardage situations like third and one or second and short where defenses are more likely to sit in a run friendly front.
