Last season, sophomore Jason Harris provided Cyclone fans with moments of excitement and frustration at running back. As a freshman he rushed 11 times during the 2005 season for 40 yards, showing a combination of power and speed while filling in for the injured Stevie Hicks.

The drawback for Harris was his ball security. In those 11 carries, Harris fumbled twice. This season, with the return of Hicks and the emergence of Josh Johnson as a backup, Harris’ playing time looked to shrink even more.

But coach Dan McCarney moved Harris to the defense, giving him looks at both safety and linebacker.

“The way these freshmen are coming on [at running back], he had his hands full beating those guys out – not that he couldn’t – but he had his hands full,” McCarney said.

“I think it’s going to be a really good move for him over the next few years. He’s got a real good attitude about it.”

McCarney said Harris will have a good chance to play when Iowa State opens its season against Toledo on Aug. 31.

“He’s got two weeks to earn it,” McCarney said.

“It’s not up to me; it’s up to him and his consistency and performance.”

Kick returner Ryan Baum has also been added to the defensive side of the ball since fall practice began.

Baum, a backup wide receiver last season, will still return kicks for the Cyclones, but is getting a look at safety.