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With only 5 days left until Oregon State starts fall camp, we continue our countdown of the 25 most valuable football players. To follow-up from yesterday's selection of Dustin Stanton, today's pick goes to senior wide receiver Victor Bolden.
#5 Victor Bolden Jr - Wide Receiver
Victor Bolden is a 5-foot-9, 180-pound speedy, veteran receiver. The former three-star recruit from California was highly sought after, despite his small frame and he held offers from USC, UCLA, Texas A&M along with many other schools.
Interestingly enough, despite all of Bolden’s talent he wasn’t allowed to play competitive football until he reached 8th grade. His parents wanted to prolong his health and football career as long as possible.
Victor Bolden had a stellar sophomore campaign catching passes from Sean Mannion, but struggled last year without a reliable quarterback. Despite his struggles as a receiver his junior year, he still managed to make a difference in other ways. Like his gorgeous punt return touchdown in the Civil War. (Video Below)
What a punt return yesterday by Victor Bolden. And what a block by Kendall Hill! #gobeavs pic.twitter.com/jCpb1iRvIF
— OregonStateFootball (@BeaverFootball) November 28, 2015
Victor Bolden was recently named to the Hornung Pre-Season Watch List an award that is given annually to the most versatile player in college football. And he has done it all for Oregon State during his career. He's amassed 124 receptions for 1321 yards, 67 carries for 398 yards, 86 kick/punt returns for 1900 yards and 8 touchdowns all while suiting up for the Beavers.
This year he will again be heavily featured in Oregon State’s offense. He should develop an instant connection with Darrell Garrettson and help spread the field for the Beaver’s many other weapons.
He is listed as the starting kick and punt returner on Oregon State’s most recent depth chart as well. He will also see a good amount of carries, as he has been the go to guy in recent years for Oregon State's fly sweep play.
Victor Bolden will have his hands full this season as one of Oregon State’s most crucial offensive weapons. Gary Andersen challenged him to be a "difference-maker in this league" at Pac-12 Media Days. If Oregon State wants to shock people and beat expectations this year, then Bolden will need to have an outstanding season.
Our "Fall Camp Countdown" continues tomorrow with the #4 Most Valuable Player for the Beavers in 2016.
The List So Far:
#5: Victor Bolden (WR)
#7: Ryan Nall (RB)
#10: Gavin Andrews (RG)
#11: Titus Failauga (OLB)
#12: Paul Lucas (R-Back)
#13: Baker Pritchard (DE)
#14: Bright Ugwoebu (LB)
#15: Noah Togiai (H-Back)
#16: Sumner Houston (NT)
#19: Seth Collins (WR)
#20: Dwayne Williams (CB)
#23: Manase Hungalu (LB)
#24: Elu Aydon (DT)