Nevada's Triumph and Horton’s Rise: A Journey from Fresno to Fort Collins
In 2019, Nevada's football program witnessed a memorable season under the guidance of third-year head coach Jay Norvell. A defining moment came with a hard-fought victory over Fresno State, marking a significant achievement for the team. Yet, amidst the gridiron battles and strategic plays, a burgeoning star was emerging—Tory Horton.
Tory Horton, a dynamic wide receiver, caught the eye of many during a CIF-Central Section playoff game. Among those present was Eric Scott, who witnessed Horton’s potential firsthand as he made an impressive 54-yard catch. Recognizing his talent, Nevada extended Horton his first scholarship offer from an FBS program, catapulting him into a new realm of collegiate football opportunities.
From Big Sky to FBS: Horton's Ascendancy
Before Nevada’s offer, Horton was predominantly courted by Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado. His inclusion as a three-star prospect on 247Sports since February 2019 signified his potential, but his recruitment truly began to soar when he joined No Zone, a notable 7-on-7 team. Alongside future Division I talents such as Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena, Horton honed his skills and gained invaluable experience.
Reflecting on the talent pool within No Zone, Mike Ware, Horton’s 7-on-7 coach from Fresno, remarked, "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level." This statement underscored the caliber of athletes emerging from the team and the promising future that lay ahead for Horton.
A New Chapter at Colorado State
The trajectory of Horton’s career took a significant turn when Jay Norvell, Nevada’s head coach, transitioned to Colorado State in 2022. Loyal to his coach and grateful for the opportunity, Horton followed suit, embarking on a new chapter in Fort Collins. His impact was immediate and profound.
In the 2022 season, Horton made an indelible mark, accumulating 71 receptions for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. He continued to elevate his performance in the 2023 season, recording an astounding 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns. Horton’s decision to return to Colorado State for one final season, rather than declaring for the NFL Draft or exploring the transfer portal, exemplifies his unwavering loyalty and dedication. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," noted Chad Savage, a graduate assistant.
A Season of Promise and Challenges
As the 2023 season unfolded, Horton showcased his versatility with a breathtaking 78-yard punt return for a touchdown, coupled with a team-high 65 yards receiving. However, an injury in a recent game posed a challenge. Despite this setback, Coach Jay Norvell expressed optimism about Horton’s recovery, stating, "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week."
Looking ahead, Colorado State’s schedule promises compelling matchups, including a significant contest against Colorado—a fixture not seen since 1996. This game carries additional weight for Horton, who achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s unforgettable overtime loss to Colorado.
The Final Season
As Horton enters his final season at Colorado State, he does so with an impressive resume, having been named to the All-Mountain West first team twice. His journey from a promising high school player in Fresno to a standout receiver at the collegiate level illustrates a narrative of perseverance, growth, and unyielding commitment.
Horton’s story is not merely about individual statistics but about the relationships and loyalty that have defined his career. With one season left, there's little doubt that Horton will continue to electrify the field, leaving an indelible mark on Colorado State football.