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Systems/Spread (Shotgun)/Counter Trey
RunBest for: Base down10U+ · Core

Counter Trey

Running back takes a counter step and follows a pulling guard and tackle.

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

Age version
TGCGTWRSSWRQBRB
Ball carrierBlock / pullMotionRoute / pass
14U — Add 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

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

Coach it with
RB Vision and Cut RB Footwork and Start Field Goal / PAT Operation
RB

Take a counter step away, then follow the pulling guard and tackle backside.

Coach it with
RB Vision and Cut RB Footwork and Start Pull and Kick Technique
Playside Guard

Down-block the first inside defender.

Coach it with
WR Stalk Block TE Seal and Arc Block RB Blitz Pickup
Backside Guard

Pull and kick out the end man on the line of scrimmage.

Coach it with
Pull and Kick Technique Trap Block Angle Scoop / Cutoff Block
Center

Block back to seal the backside.

Coach it with
TE Seal and Arc Block Down Block Angle Drive Combo Double-Team to Linebacker
Playside Tackle

Down-block the defender inside.

Coach it with
WR Stalk Block TE Seal and Arc Block DB Tackle in Space
Backside Tackle

Pull and wrap up through the hole onto the linebacker.

Coach it with
Heads Up Form Tackle Progression Pull and Kick Technique Trap Block Angle
TE

Down-block inside to help the wall.

Coach it with
WR Stalk Block TE Seal and Arc Block RB Blitz Pickup
Playside WR

Stalk-block the corner.

Coach it with
WR Stalk Block Screen Setup & Block in Space TE Seal and Arc Block
Slot

Block the overhang.

Coach it with
WR Stalk Block Screen Setup & Block in Space TE Seal and Arc Block
Backside WR

Cut off backside coverage.

Coach it with
Team Skelly Pass Period LB Coverage Drop DB Backpedal Technique

How to teach it

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

Common mistakes to fix

  • !Pulling tackle wraps too wide — teach him to turn up tight off the kickout.
  • !Back's counter step is too slow — quick jab then downhill behind the pullers.
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Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.

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