Despite Ga. Tech’s struggles, Miami Hurricanes TE Cam McCormick expects tough game: “They’re a really good team”

Eighth-year Miami Hurricanes tight end Cam McCormick perhaps doesn’t get the same public accolades as players that are catching plenty of passes and finding the end zone (he has two catches for 28 yards and no TDs). But his impact on the UM offense can’t be overstated.

He’s been a physical presence in the run game and has helped tremendously as a pass protector.

Perhaps those are best encapsulated by his Pro Football Focus grades. In 155 reps this year, McCormick grades out at 71.8 percent as a pass blocker and 72.4 percent as a run blocker. His run block grade is highest on the team for players with over 50 reps, with Matt McCoy No. 2 at 69.5 percent in 63 reps.

The goal is to keep being consistent off a bye week with Miami 4-0 and Georgia Tech up later tonight.

“We watch film, study them, they’re a really good team,” McCormick said. “We need to be ready for anything when we get out there. … When we get out there: Has our preparation led us to a point we can play at a high level, execute at a good enough level?”

While the tight end room perhaps hasn’t had a lot of experienced depth this year aside from McCormick, that appears set to change soon. Elijah Arroyo, who was projected as a starter in the preseason, is expected to return soon, perhaps for the game tonight.

“He’s been working really, really hard,” McCormick said. “He wants to get back out on the field as much as we want him on the field, but that comes with time. He’s been doing a really good job in practice, his preparation and I’m excited to see when he does get out there.

“Coming off injury, his knee, it’s a long road. Things happen, new movements. As someone who went through that, too, I know how that goes. I try to be a good support person for him.”

As for tonight’s opponent? Well, the Yellow Jackets are 2-3 and coming off a loss to Bowling Green. And an Achilles’ heel is a defense that is one of the nation’s worst – No. 112 in total defense (427.8 yards allowed per game) and No. 127 in rushing defense (224.2 yards).

“We’re not overlooking any opponent,” McCormick said. “It’s about everyone’s preparation, their willingness to compete and win. We’re all here to play football, have to put your best foot forward.

“The ACC is a really good conference – all the teams are good, all have good players, all have the chance to win games.”

*McCormick is no stranger to wearing “loud” uniforms as a former Oregon player. Miami Nights will be an all-black uniform vs. Georgia Tech.

“The jersey is a cool thing, I’m excited to wear a different uniform,” McCormick said. “But at the end of the day it’s just a uniform.”

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