LaRod Stephens-Howling has a goal this fall. Something Pitt hasn’t had in several years.

Still, that elusive 1,000-yard barrier looms for Stephens-Howling

“That is definitely a goal. That’s what Coach Wannstedt told me I should get it and I told him I am ready for it and pushing for it,’’ he said. “I hope our linemen are pushing for it as well as the rest of the team. Hopefully, we can do it as a group effort.’’

No one was been unable to unseat Stephens-Howling last year, except for injuries. There’s a lot of potential talent at the position, and apparently Shariff Harris looked good with the second group, no contact or pads and just helmets today.

Although McCoy was the most heralded running back recruit, and performed as such, Harris showed surprising burst all day and might have been the most impressive offensive player. He broke through the line of scrimmage, running with power and slapping away arm tackles.

Think Harris might be trying to let the coaching staff he doesn’t want to be moved to linebacker?

Dorin Dickerson does not sound like a player torn about being moved from offensive weapon to linebacker.

“I’m very comfortable with where I am at as a linebacker and I’m really happy with this move,” Dickerson said. “I think it is best for me and for the team. Defense is far more free, you just go out and play and don’t worry so much about much of anything else.

“Coming out of high school, I didn’t even like playing defense, but I’ll be honest — I love defense now. I love it so much it is ridiculous. I wouldn’t even want to go back and play offense now because I have a different mind-set and a more hard-nosed mentality. I used to look forward to running or catching the ball. Now I just can’t wait to put the pads on and hit somebody.”

Now, if he can just avoid injury.