Counter combines Power's gap-scheme blocking with misdirection. The running back steps opposite the play direction before receiving the ball, freezing linebackers while two pulling blockers lead through the hole.
Overview
Counter is the perfect complement to Power and other gap schemes. It uses the same down-blocking principles and pulling blockers, but adds a backfield fake that shows one direction before attacking the other way.
In classic Counter, the guard and tackle (or guard and fullback) pull to the play side. The guard kicks out the defensive end while the tackle leads through the hole. The running back takes a step toward the fake before receiving the ball and following his blockers.
The scheme's misdirection element freezes linebackers and secondary run support, often creating larger running lanes than Power. It's particularly effective when teams have established their Power game and defenses are flowing hard to the initial action.
History & Origin
Counter grew out of the Washington Redskins' gap-scheme offense. Joe Gibbs and his staff added misdirection to their Power concept, creating Counter Trey (guard and tackle pulling) which became a signature play of their championship teams.
Key Principles
- 1Running back steps toward the fake before receiving the ball
- 2Two pullers: guard kicks out, tackle leads through
- 3Down blocks on the play side seal defenders inside
- 4Misdirection freezes linebackers and secondary support
- 5Running back must sell the fake with his initial steps
- 6Patience is key - let blocks develop
- 7Read the kick-out block: inside if kicked out, bounce if spilled
When to Use
Counter is most effective after establishing Power and other gap schemes. Use it when linebackers are flowing hard to the ball or when you want to attack away from the strength of the defense. It's excellent for creating explosive runs.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Misdirection freezes defenders
- +Complements Power perfectly
- +Creates big-play opportunities
- +Excellent against aggressive linebackers
- +Sets up play-action and bootlegs
Disadvantages
- −Slower developing than Power
- −Requires two athletic pulling linemen
- −Running back must be patient
- −Can be blown up by unblocked backside pursuit
What Coaches Call It
Different coaches use different terminology for the same concepts.
| Coach | Team | Their Term | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Meyer | — | Counter | Standard terminology |
| Joe Gibbs | Redskins | Counter Trey | Trey = three (guard and tackle pull) |
| Lincoln Riley | USC | Counter | Used extensively with RPOs |
What You Need
Skills and jobs required to run this scheme effectively.
Critical
Guard and tackle (or guard and FB) pull to play-side
Pull across formation to kick out defender or lead through hole. Requires athleticism and discipline.
High
Play-side OL down blocks to create pulling lane
Drive defender inside to seal the gap. Fundamental power blocking technique.
RB sells the fake before receiving handoff
Wait for blocks to develop before hitting hole. Vision and trust in blocking scheme.
Medium
Backside protection against fast pursuit
Protect backside by hindering pursuit. Often used by backside tackle in gap schemes.
Second puller leads through hole
Fold around adjacent lineman to block linebacker. Timing and path.
Matchups
Good Against
- +Fast-flowing linebackers
- +Over-aggressive defenses
- +4-3 fronts
- +Teams that key on backfield action
- +Cover 3
Avoid Against
- −Disciplined read-and-react defenses
- −Slow-playing linebackers
- −Spill technique
- −Athletic backside pursuit
Installation
What You Need
Prerequisites for running this scheme effectively.
- ✓Two athletic pulling linemen
- ✓Running back who can sell fakes
- ✓Down-blocking playside linemen
When NOT to Use This
- !Don't call if pullers can't get around in time
- !Avoid against teams that don't bite on action
- !Slow-developing - needs good protection