Following another unconventional comeback win on the road against Michigan State, the Blackshirts have announced they are finally ready to start learning the second half of the playbook.

“We got the first part down pretty well, I think,” said Aaron Curry, a defensive back. “Like, we know all of the plays there. I want to see some other plays.”

The idea to reveal the playbook as the season progressed was the brainchild of NU defensive coordinator John Papuchis.

“It’s like teaching a little kid to read,” he said. “Are you gonna show them every word right away? Of course not. Why would you do that with football players?”

However, players are getting antsy about learning the new plays. The Huskers sit at an unexpected 7-2, in large part because of the defense’s understanding of the first half of the playbook.

“I heard the other half has all the ones about how to deal with pass plays,” said Jeff Uher, a defensive tackle. “I had to sneak a peek. There’s some really neat stuff in there, like how to tackle and how to make the other team not score so many points.

“I bet those things will help,” he added.

Papuchis said players needed to display patience and faith in the system put before them.

“Everything is on pace,” he said. “It’s all part of a bigger plan. Just watch what happens for the rest of the season. The Blackshirts are coming.

“Specifically, against Iowa,” he added.