Nevada’s Triumph in 2019: A Gateway for Tory Horton
The 2019 football season was a memorable one for Nevada, not just for their spirited victories on the field but also for the emergence of talents like Tory Horton. Under the guidance of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, Nevada faced Fresno State and secured a significant win. This match and season would set the stage for one of college football's promising wide receivers.
During the 2019 CIF-Central Section playoff game, Horton had a standout moment with a single catch that went for 54 yards, a play that caught the attention of Eric Scott. This performance was pivotal, leading Nevada to extend Horton his first scholarship offer from an FBS program. Before this, Horton's collegiate opportunities were limited to Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado.
Horton's profile began to rise as he was recognized as a three-star prospect on 247Sports since February 2019. His time with the talented 7-on-7 team, No Zone, further solidified his potential. No Zone boasted future Division I receivers such as Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. According to Horton’s Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach, Mike Ware, “We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level.”
In 2022, Norvell transitioned to Colorado State and took Horton with him. At Colorado State, Horton had a stellar season, catching 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. He continued his impressive performance in 2023, with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite having the option to declare for the NFL Draft or transfer via the portal, Horton chose to return to Colorado State for one final season.
Horton’s loyalty and commitment are attributes well-acknowledged by those around him. “He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family,” said Chad Savage, a graduate assistant. Indeed, his decision to stay at Colorado State speaks volumes of his character and devotion to the team.
In the upcoming season, Colorado State fans eagerly await the rematch against Colorado, marking the first time they will host Colorado since 1996. Expectations are high, especially following Horton’s electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury sidelined him last week. On Horton's potential return, Norvell reassured fans, "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week."
As a two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection, Horton’s impressive stats include a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado. With one final season left at Colorado State, Horton is poised to make a lasting impact.
Horton’s journey from his prolific days with No Zone to becoming a pivotal player at Colorado State, reflects not only his skill but also his unwavering dedication. As he steps onto the field for his final collegiate season, all eyes will be on this remarkable athlete who continues to prove his mettle with every game.