Nevada Battles, Triumphs, and Transitions: Tory Horton's Journey from College Football to Stardom
Nevada's 2019 football season was memorable, not just for their victory over Fresno State, but also for the strides made by then-third-year head coach Jay Norvell. His tenure marked significant progress for the team, but it also set the stage for the rise of remarkable talents, including that of Tory Horton.
Horton's path to recognition wasn't straightforward. During a CIF-Central Section playoff game, Horton had one catch for a whopping 54 yards – a performance noted by Eric Scott. It was after this standout moment that Horton received his first scholarship offer from an FBS program, extended by Nevada, signifying a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career.
Despite being a three-star prospect on 247Sports since February 2019, Horton’s collegiate options initially were limited to Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado. His talents were more broadly recognized while playing for No Zone, a prominent 7-on-7 team. This team also boasted future Division I receivers such as Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena.
Reflecting on his time with No Zone, Mike Ware, Horton’s Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach, remarked, "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level." Horton's journey among such talent undoubtedly sharpened his skills and competitive edge.
When Norvell moved to Colorado State in 2022, he took Horton with him. This decision proved fruitful for both the coach and the player. In the 2022 season, Horton tallied 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns, a clear demonstration of his evolving prowess.
The following year, Horton continued to impress, recording 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and maintaining his eight touchdowns streak. Such consistency made Horton a standout player in the Mountain West Conference, earning him two-time All-Mountain West first-team honors.
Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, highlighted Horton's character amidst his athletic excellence: "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family."
Horton's loyalty shone through crucial decisions. Instead of declaring for the NFL Draft or transferring via the portal, he chose to return to Colorado State for one final season. This commitment was met with optimism and excitement, especially ahead of Colorado State’s significant matchup, hosting Colorado for the first time since 1996.
This season, Horton showcased his versatility and big-play ability. Notably, he had an electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury temporarily sidelined him. Yet, hope remains high for his return. Head coach Jay Norvell mentioned, "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week."
Horton's career has been marked by resilience, skill, and loyalty. His statistics speak volumes, like his career-high of 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado. As he embarks on his final season at Colorado State, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation for what this talented receiver can achieve next.
Tory Horton's journey from a promising three-star prospect to a leading figure in collegiate football is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the supportive figures around him. With one more season at Colorado State, fans and scouts alike eagerly watch to see how this story will unfold.