Systems/Gun-T / Pistol/Counter Right
RunBest for: Base down10U+ · Core

Counter Right

Running back takes a counter step then follows the backside pullers.

Concept: Backside guard kicks out the end man and the backside tackle wraps up through the hole.

Age version
TGCGTQBRBWWWRWR
Ball carrierBlock / pullMotionRoute / pass
14UAdd the edge: Add the kickout block and run it to both sides. Add the fake/mesh — and a counter off the very same look. Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.
Play movement — schematic, not to scale

Grows with your players

Same play, more layers as they age up — teach it once and build on it every season for a consistent program.

  1. 10UIntroduce: Nail the snap/exchange, aim the right hole, and finish downhill.
  2. 12UAdd the lead: Add the pulling guard(s) leading through the hole.
  3. 14UAdd the edge: Add the kickout block and run it to both sides. Add the fake/mesh — and a counter off the very same look. Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.

Every position's job

QB

Catch the snap, execute the counter footwork, and hand to the back on the counter path.

RB

Take a counter step, then follow the backside pullers.

Playside Guard

Down-block the first inside defender.

Backside Guard

Pull and kick out the end man on the line.

Playside Tackle

Down-block the defender inside.

Backside Tackle

Pull and wrap up through the hole onto the linebacker.

TE

Down-block inside to help the wall.

How to teach it

  • 1Backside guard kicks OUT the end man; backside tackle wraps UP through the hole.
  • 2Back takes a counter step, then follows the two pullers.
  • 3Line down-blocks to create the counter alley.

Common mistakes to fix

  • !Pulling tackle wraps too wide — turn up tight off the kickout.
  • !Counter step too slow — quick jab then downhill.

Build this into your call sheet.

Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.