Nevada's 2019 football season was a remarkable journey, highlighted by their victory over Fresno State. In his third year as head coach, Jay Norvell led the team with skill and determination. Among the many stories of that season, one that stands out is the emergence of receiver Tory Horton.
Horton's football journey began to gain significant traction during a CIF-Central Section playoff game, which Eric Scott attended. It was there that Horton made an impression with an energizing 54-yard catch. That performance prompted Nevada to extend Horton his first scholarship offer from an FBS program, a pivotal moment in the young athlete's career.
Horton, who had been a three-star prospect on 247Sports since February 2019, was a member of the talented 7-on-7 squad known as No Zone. This team was esteemed not just for Horton's potential but also for its roster full of future Division I receivers, including Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. Mike Ware, the Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach, spoke to the collective talent of the team, saying, "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level."
Despite his prospects, before Nevada's interest, Horton’s collegiate opportunities were limited to Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado. His trajectory changed significantly after Jay Norvell reached out. Norvell, recognizing Horton's potential, later brought him along to Colorado State after being hired in 2022. It was a decision that has paid dividends for both coach and player.
At Colorado State, Horton had an outstanding 2022 season where he caught 71 passes for 1,131 yards and scored eight touchdowns. Showing no signs of slowing down, he recorded 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and again scored eight touchdowns in the 2023 season. Horton's loyalty and dedication were evident when he chose to return to Colorado State for one final season instead of declaring for the NFL Draft or entering the transfer portal. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," noted Chad Savage, a graduate assistant.
Horton's consistency and performance have earned him significant recognition, including being a two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection. His play during key games further accentuates his value; he achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in an overtime loss to Colorado last season. Moreover, in a recent game, Horton electrified the crowd with a 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and led the team with 65 receiving yards before an injury sidelined him. "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week," commented Jay Norvell, addressing Horton's current health status.
As Horton enters his final season at Colorado State, the anticipation is high. The team is set to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, and Horton's presence is crucial for the Rams. The legacy he's building at Colorado State speaks to not just his talent but also his steadfast loyalty and determination to succeed. The narrative of Tory Horton—from his early catches that caught the eyes of scouts to his impactful presence on the field at Colorado State—encapsulates the spirit of collegiate football and the enduring journey of athletic excellence.