Week 12 ACC Notes: Cameron Erving's position switch helps draft stock

Heading into the season as a Day 2 offensive tackle prospect, Florida State senior Cameron Erving was exposed against Vic Beasley’s speed off the edge earlier this season against Clemson. His struggles continued in the following weeks, but an experiment made necessary by Florida State’s issues replacing center Bryan Stork – who was drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round this season – may help to resuscitate his draft stock.

True freshman Roderick Johnson made his first career start at left tackle as Erving shifted to center for Saturday night’s matchup with Miami, and the move paid immediate dividends for the Seminoles. The offensive line, which has struggled to meet expectations this season despite having multiple NFL prospects, allowed just one sack and paved the way for 114 rushing yards on 19 carries. Erving’s athleticism has always been apparent at left tackle, but it looks to be a huge asset at the center position.

Freshman running Dalvin Cook hit the Hurricanes for two touchdowns of 25 or more yards, and Erving made key blocks on both runs, sealing off holes for the lightning-fast Cook to hit and reach the second level. Erving himself was quick out of his stance and showed more aggression playing inside than he has on the edge, and the senior used his athleticism to make a few nice blocks of his own at the second level. His movement skills fit very well at center and, as pro stars like Alex Mack and Jason Kelce prove, athletic centers can be extremely key pieces to NFL offensive lines.

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