Nevada's 2019 Gridiron Journey
The 2019 football season was a pivotal one for the Nevada Wolf Pack, as they faced off against Fresno State and emerged victorious. Under the stewardship of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, the team showed significant promise and growth. Norvell's leadership would later play a crucial role in shaping the career trajectory of a budding football talent, Tory Horton.
Tory Horton: Rising Star
Tory Horton first caught attention during a CIF-Central Section playoff game, where he recorded an impressive one catch for 54 yards. Eric Scott, present at the game, witnessed Horton's potential first-hand. Following this performance, Nevada extended Horton his first scholarship offer from an FBS program. This marked a significant milestone for Horton, who had previously only garnered interest from Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado.
Horton, a three-star prospect on 247Sports since February 2019, was a member of the talented 7-on-7 team, No Zone. This team boasted future Division I receivers such as Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. Mike Ware, Horton’s Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach, lauded the group's impact, saying, "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level."
From Nevada to Colorado State
When Jay Norvell moved to Colorado State as head coach in 2022, he brought Horton along, recognizing the young receiver's potential. Horton did not disappoint. In the 2022 season, he caught 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. His performance only improved in the 2023 season, recording 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and another eight touchdowns.
The Choice to Return
Despite his impressive stats, Horton chose to return to Colorado State for one final season rather than declare for the NFL Draft or transfer via the portal. Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, noted Horton's loyalty, stating, "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family."
Looking Ahead
This season, Colorado State will host Colorado for the first time since 1996, a game that promises to be a highlight. Horton, true to form, delivered an electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and led the team with 65 receiving yards before an injury sidelined him last week. However, Jay Norvell remains optimistic about Horton's recovery, saying, "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week."
Achievements and Accolades
Horton's accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. He is a two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection, a testament to his skill and consistency. In a memorable performance last year, Horton achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in an overtime loss to Colorado.
With one final season left at Colorado State, Horton has yet another opportunity to solidify his legacy. The upcoming games will be crucial, not just for Horton’s individual accolades, but also for setting the stage for his professional career. As fans and scouts alike watch closely, there's no doubt that Tory Horton is a name to remember in college football's current landscape.
Concluding Thoughts
As Horton embarks on his final season, his journey from a promising high school talent to a collegiate standout exemplifies dedication, skill, and the impact of strategic mentorship. Under Jay Norvell's guidance, Horton has refined his craft, positioning himself as one of the most electrifying players in the Mountain West Conference. As Colorado State prepares to face Colorado, the anticipation builds, promising an exciting chapter in Horton's burgeoning career.