Nevada Football's Journey and Tory Horton’s Rise
During Nevada's 2019 football season, head coach Jay Norvell led the team to an impressive victory over Fresno State. As the third-year head coach, Norvell’s leadership played a pivotal role in Nevada’s success. A significant development that season was Nevada’s decision to extend a scholarship offer to Tory Horton, a talented young receiver from Fresno, California, marking his first offer from an FBS program.
Horton had shown promise before Nevada’s offer, especially during a CIF-Central Section playoff game that Eric Scott attended. Horton made a memorable impression with a 54-yard catch. Recognized as a three-star prospect by 247Sports since February 2019, Horton’s potential was evident. He was also part of an elite 7-on-7 team known as No Zone, which included notable future Division I receivers like Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. Reflecting on his No Zone days, Horton’s coach Mike Ware remarked, “We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level.”
Before Nevada's offer, Horton’s college opportunities were limited to Big Sky schools Montana and Northern Colorado. The offer from Nevada, therefore, was a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. His commitment and talent did not go unnoticed, leading Norvell to bring Horton with him to Colorado State when he was hired in 2022.
Horton's impact at Colorado State was immediate and profound. In the 2022 season, he caught 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. The following season, he bettered his performance with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns. His decision to return to Colorado State for one final season, instead of declaring for the NFL Draft or transferring, underscores his loyalty and dedication to the team. Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, noted, “He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family.”
Colorado State is set to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, and Horton’s performance will be crucial. Last week, he had an electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and recorded a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury sidelined him. Despite the setback, Norvell remains optimistic about Horton’s return. “Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week,” he stated.
Horton’s accolades at Colorado State include being a two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection. His career-high performance of 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado remains a testament to his capability and resilience. With one final season left, Horton’s focus is on making significant contributions to his team’s success.
It’s not just his statistics that stand out but also his tenacity and commitment to his teammates. The dynamic receiver has transformed from a high school prospect with limited collegiate options to a pivotal player at Colorado State, showcasing his growth and importance to the team's strategy and morale.
As the upcoming season unfolds, all eyes will be on Horton. His journey, marked by determination and loyalty, continues to inspire his teammates and coaches, ensuring that his final season at Colorado State will be one to remember.