The 2019 football season was a year to remember for Nevada, highlighted by a significant victory over Fresno State. Under the guidance of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, the team displayed resilience and prowess on the field. One player who began his rise during this time was Tory Horton, a talented receiver whose journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
Horton's Breakthrough
At a CIF-Central Section playoff game, where Eric Scott took notice, Horton showcased his potential with a standout 54-yard catch. This performance marked the beginning of a promising career, leading to his first FBS scholarship offer from Nevada in 2019. Rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports since February of that year, Horton’s talent was clear. His skill set was further honed on a talented 7-on-7 team known as No Zone, which included future Division I receivers like Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena.
"We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level," said Mike Ware, Horton’s 7-on-7 coach from Fresno. Ware’s comments emphasize the high caliber of players Horton competed alongside, highlighting the exceptional training ground that No Zone provided.
The Path to Prominence
Before Nevada stepped in, Horton’s opportunities at the collegiate level were limited to Big Sky schools Montana and Northern Colorado. This offer from Nevada was a turning point, providing Horton the platform to showcase his abilities on a larger stage.
When Jay Norvell took the helm at Colorado State in 2022, he brought Horton with him. At Colorado State, Horton delivered an outstanding performance, catching 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2022 season. His upward trajectory continued into the 2023 season, with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns.
Enduring Loyalty and Performance
Horton’s commitment to Colorado State was further demonstrated when he opted to return for one final season rather than declaring for the NFL Draft or entering the transfer portal. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," remarked Chad Savage, a graduate assistant. Horton's loyalty is matched by his performance on the field, making him a cornerstone of Colorado State's offense.
This season, Horton has already made headlines with an electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury sidelined him last week. Norvell commented, "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week."
A New Chapter Against Colorado
As Colorado State prepares to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, Horton’s presence is more critical than ever. He has proven to be a consistent performer, having recorded a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado. With one final season ahead of him, the stakes are high, and expectations are even higher.
Tory Horton’s journey from being a promising high school player to a pivotal figure in college football exemplifies dedication, skill, and resilience. As he prepares for his final season, Horton remains a player to watch, both for his talent and his unwavering commitment to his team. His story, intertwined with the leadership of Jay Norvell, continues to inspire and set the stage for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.