Published Aug 23, 2019
Binjimen Victor looks to elevate his game in final season
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Keaton Maisano  •  DottingTheEyes
Staff
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COLUMBUS, Ohio – Binjimen Victor is looking to put it all together and grow into a consistently great contributor this season.

When Ohio State fans think of Victor, they most likely reminisce the 47-yard touchdown under the lights in Happy Valley.

The 6-foot-4-inch Victor was forced to use his length and strong hands to secure a high throw over the middle. His ability to cover the last 37 yards after the catch capped off a special moment in a pivotal game against then-undefeated Penn State.

This appeared to be a launching off point for Victor. Many expected to see the same kind of playmaking each Saturday going forward, but the play turned out to be just another flash of greatness in a career that has lacked consistency.

Victor would finish the season with 19 receptions for 320 yards.

The stage is set for Victor’s senior season, and he is determined to capitalize on the opportunity.

“Really just having that focus and coming in every day, going hard, pushing my teammates, worrying about zone six, making plays every chance I get,” Victor said on his approach this year.

There is no doubt that Victor possesses a tremendous amount of talent and has the potential to flourish, but stringing good games together is something he needs to do in order to take the next step.

Brian Hartline has noticed an elevated focus and work ethic from Victor, who is looking for it to help his consistency during the season.

“I think he’s stepped up his offseason,” Hartline said. “I think it’s translated into the camp. I think he’s in a position right now where, if you ask him, he just needs to put it together on Saturdays.”

Victor has also made some physical changes to help position himself for a breakout season.

“I think he does a lot of really good things. He’s added weight, still playing fast, catching the ball well. Everything is happening well,” Hartline said.

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The pressure to perform at a high level for an entire season can seem overwhelming, but Victor has made sure to keep his focus on the present and not look too far ahead.

“Working every day, making plays and keep attacking every day,” Victor said on his mindset.

Victor has looked to evaluate and improve upon his weaknesses during the offseason. He specifically mentioned his focus on properly executing his deep routes.

Victor has prepared and worked since last season in order to be reliable and solid when his number is called.

“Every time I go in and a play is called for me, whether it was blocking or the ball is coming to me, I have to go in and have that mindset that I have to make this play every chance I get,” Victor said.

Despite his focus on his own game, the purpose behind his desired improvement is team driven. He is not focused on any individual goals or statistics to validate a successful season.

Instead, Victor wants to do what is necessary to elevate the 2019 Buckeyes and realize a great deal of team success.

“I worry about the team and try to help the team every chance you get,” Victor said. “Your personal goals will overcome itself. That’s what I’m worrying about, just helping my team and doing everything I can to help them.”

As far as the pressure on him to meet the expectations that have been set for him, Victor is keeping his focus on the work in front of him.

“I feel like you just have to block the outside noise and put your head down and work as hard as can,” Victor said.