Nevada’s 2019 Success Sets Stage for Tory Horton’s Ascent
Nevada's 2019 football season was notable not just for the victories achieved under the helm of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, but also for the seeds it planted for future stars. One of those emerging talents was Tory Horton, a then-unknown receiver whose trajectory would lead him to becoming a standout in college football.
During a CIF-Central Section playoff game, Horton's raw potential caught the eye of then-Nevada assistant coach Eric Scott. Horton managed to pull off a spectacular 54-yard catch, a performance that would earn him his first scholarship offer from an FBS program. This was a significant moment for Horton, previously only seen by Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado.
Horton was no stranger to the competitive edge necessary for success. As a member of the talented No Zone 7-on-7 team, Horton honed his skills alongside future Division I receivers such as Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. Reflecting on this time, his 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."
Transition to Colorado State
Fast forward to 2022, and Jay Norvell transitions to the head coaching role at Colorado State. True to form, he brings Horton with him, further cementing Horton's loyalty and trust in his coach. At Colorado State, Horton flourished. He caught 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2022 season. Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, emphasized Horton's loyalty saying, "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family."
The 2023 season saw Horton elevate his game even more, recording 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns. His performance affirmed his status as a pivotal player for Colorado State, choosing to return for one final season rather than declaring for the NFL Draft or entering the transfer portal.
Stellar Performances and Setbacks
Despite battling aches and injuries, Horton consistently delivered electrifying performances. He managed a 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and achieved a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury sidelined him temporarily. "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week," noted Jay Norvell, remaining optimistic about Horton's return to full fitness.
Horton's valor on the field has earned him two consecutive All-Mountain West first-team selections, underlining his reliability and excellence. His capability was on full display in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado, where he achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown.
With Horton returning for one final season, anticipation builds as Colorado State prepares to host Colorado for the first time since 1996. His skill set and experience make him a pivotal asset for the Rams, and fans are eagerly awaiting to see how he contributes to the team's upcoming challenges.
Through each yard gained, each catch secured, Tory Horton exemplifies dedication and resilience. From his early days in Nevada to his current status as a star at Colorado State, Horton’s journey is a testament to his hard work, loyalty, and the exceptional mentoring he’s received along the way.
As he gears up for his last collegiate season, all eyes will be on Horton, eager to see him shine once more under the stadium lights.