How to Run Counter Option versus a Split 4-4 Defense

December 24, 2013

Counter Option must be run when the backside inside linebacker makes the tackle on Triple/Midline Option.

Regardless of which linebacker makes the tackle, the Counter Option should be run to the smallest technique–this means if the defense aligns in a 3 and 1 technique, the Counter Option defaults to the 1-technique.

So if Counter Option Left is called (19 in Paul Johnson terminology system), there’s a 3-technique to the left, and a 1-technique to the right, the Counter Option defaults to the right (18 in Paul Johnson terminology system).  The Quarterback makes an “Opposite” call to alert the default.

Here’s how this all works…

Counter Option Right v. 4-4 (Split) Defense

Counter Option Rules

Playside Receiver- Near Deep Defender

Playside A- Twirl, #3

Playside Tackle- Easy Veer-Deucecom (v. 2/3)

Playside Guard- Base-Deuecom (v. 2/3)-Down (v. 2i/1)

Center- Base (v. 0)-Down

Backside Guard- Scoop #1

Backside Tackle- Base

Backside A- Pitch

Backside Receiver- Cutoff

Quarterback- Counter Steps, Pitch #2

B- Veer Away Path

The Counter Option is the concept to run when the Backside Inside Linebacker makes the tackle on Triple/Midline.  ALWAYS default the Counter Option to the smallest technique.

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