What is 23 Counter (I)?

23 Counter (I) is a youth football play from the I Formation built as a run play concept. FantasyHQ rates it Easy for youth, peewee, and Pop Warner installs, featuring the Running Back. Use the diagram and install steps below to add it to your youth football playbook.

• 23 Counter (I) belongs in a youth football playbook as a easy install.
• Primary look: Run Play.
• Formation family: I Formation.
• Export the graphic for parents, assistants, and mid-week install reminders.

Play overview

How to install 23 Counter (I)

Use this teaching progression for youth football practice — walk-through first, then live reps.

1. Walk the I alignment on air — every player finds their landmark before the snap.
2. Teach the Running Back assignment first from the diagram, then layer the rest of the call.
3. Rehearse the mesh or handoff at walk-through tempo until timing is automatic.
4. Add a scout look (or cones) that matches when you want to call this play in a game.
5. Script 4–6 live reps, then export the diagram for your staff chat or install sheet.

When to call this play

Teach your Running Back to make a few convincing jab steps the side, before cutting back hard and finding his blockers creating a hole for him on the other side.

Coaching tips for youth teams

• This is an easy youth football play — install it early in camp before adding hard concepts.
• Keep language identical on the practice field and in the huddle — one name, one job.
• Film the first live reps; pause on the landmark, not just the ball.
• Pair this with a complementary play from the same formation so defenses cannot key one look.
• If outside contain is soft, keep a sweep or toss in the same personnel as a change-up.

Formation variants

Same play name, different alignments — keep language consistent across your youth football playbook.

• 23 Counter (Wing-T)
• 23 Counter (Wishbone)
• 23 Counter (Ace)
• 23 Counter (Pro)
• 23 Counter (I)