I stumbled across an intriguing Bill Callahan quote regarding Zac Taylor this week on an ESPN Insider Weblog: “I think we’ve got to be committed to a more maximum-protection scheme and really account for the numerical matchups, so we’re not throwing to hots and making him throw against (unblocked) defenders. We’ll take our shots and there will be times when there will be hot receivers. But we’ll be more conscious of how he’s protecting himself and how we’re protecting him schematically as a staff.”

Translation I: If necessary, Nebraska will protect Taylor with a fleet of armored trucks. Wise move.

Translation II: Callahan might still be weary of the pounding Taylor endured last season.

Which brings us to the first of eight areas that merit observation during today’s Red-White Game.

1. What about those hosses along the offensive line? Any improvement?

Monitoring the trenches may not be your idea of springtime fun. But improved O-line play is foremost among factors that will determine whether Nebraska takes another step forward in Callahan’s third season as head coach. Offensive line coach Dennis Wagner said he’s gone from being confident in six of his linemen last season to 10 at this point.

The group was inconsistent during 14 spring practices, but that’s typical this time of year. Much of the trouble occurred at center (read: exchange problems with QBs), but the Huskers were without starter Kurt Mann, who should be recovered from shoulder surgery come fall.

This much is certain: The O-line was severely challenged all spring by a front seven that arguably represents the strength of the team. The first-string O-line will be tested again today against a formidable group of reserves on the White squad, most notably defensive linemen Ndamukong Suh and Zach Potter, middle linebacker Phillip Dillard and hard-hitting safety Brandon Rigoni.

2. Punisher vs. speedster.

Cody Glenn has been strong all spring, even after suffering a “moderate” high-ankle sprain. He energizes teammates with a high-stepping style and punishes defenders. Meanwhile, fleet and shifty Marlon Lucky came on late this spring after a relatively slow start to make it a fascinating and ultra-intense battle that will continue into fall camp.

“They got the bulk of the reps this spring,” offensive coordinator Jay Norvell said of Glenn and Lucky. “They had to play hurt, banged up, like everyday backs are supposed to do. They’ve grown a bunch and developed this spring, and we’re proud of their progress.”

Fellow sophomore Leon Jackson, another speedster, also has shown flashes.

3. Welcome back, Matt.

This is a bit of a surprise. Senior tight end Matt Herian today will encounter his first live action in a game or scrimmage since breaking his left leg in October of 2004. He said the broken bones have healed, though a hamstring injury slowed him for most of the spring. Imagine the roar if Herian catches a pass. Whatever the case, don’t expect Herian to lope past safeties the way he did before suffering the broken leg. At least not yet.

4. The handling of Harrison Beck.

NU coaches may face a sticky situation. Fans are eager to see how the sophomore quarterback fares when he plays extensively. However, the heralded 2005 recruit has a sore arm and will operate at less than 100 percent, if he operates at all. Would it be fair to throw the kid out there against this defense considering fans’ high expectations for him? “We need Harrison to play in the fall,” Norvell said. “If he’s not ready to play (today), then he won’t play. It wouldn’t be fair to him.”

On the other hand, after missing significant practice time this spring, Beck needs all the repetitions he can muster to smooth his rough edges. Stay tuned.

5. The gap between Taylor and backups.

It’s a gaping chasm, no question. It’s wide in large part because Taylor continues to improve. He’s looking sharp.

With Beck sidelined much of the spring, sophomore Joe Ganz took over the No. 2 offense and showed promise with his command of the offense and ability to create outside the pocket. He’ll start for the Whites today, bless his heart. He’s faced with trying to move the chains against Adam Carriker and Co. Ouch.

Look for Taylor to have a short day, meaning Ganz and classmate Beau Davis could receive the majority of snaps.

6. Steve Octavien.

You’ve probably heard about the linebacker’s prowess this spring. Now, you get to see it firsthand. Enjoy the fireworks.

7. Picking a punter.

How many times did Sam Koch rescue Nebraska last season with booming punts in crucial situations? By the way, how does Nebraska always come up with strong punters? Kyle Larson, Dan Hadenfeldt, Bill Lafleur, Jesse Kosch, Darin Erstad. They just keep coming. Somebody — Dan Titchener, Jake Wesch and Tyler Kester are leading candidates — has some big cleats to fill.

8.  Yet another star for a day?

Yes, NU must replace two starting safeties and two interior defensive line starters. But I’m more interested in seeing whether an unheralded player enjoys a big day, a moment in the sun, as is often the case in spring games. Think Chris Butler (2000), Mike Demps (1999), Todd Uhlir (1995) and Jerry Dunlap (1988, 1987). You get the idea.

Reach Steven M. Sipple at 473-7440 or ssipple@journalstar.com.