Nevada’s 2019 Football Season: A Springboard for Tory Horton’s Rise
Nevada's 2019 football season was a memorable one, highlighted by a pivotal game against Fresno State where the Wolf Pack emerged victorious. Under the leadership of Head Coach Jay Norvell, who was in his third year at the time, Nevada not only clinched wins but also identified promising talents, notably wide receiver Tory Horton.
During his high school career, Horton showcased his potential with a pivotal play during a CIF-Central Section playoff game, where he made a significant 54-yard catch. This performance caught the eye of Eric Scott, leading to Horton receiving his first FBS scholarship offer from Nevada. At the time, he was regarded as a three-star prospect by 247Sports since February 2019.
Horton wasn’t just any high school player; he was a key member of the 7-on-7 team No Zone, a group laden with future Division I talents, including Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. Mike Ware, Horton’s 7-on-7 coach, reflected on the team's prowess, stating, "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level."
Before heading to Nevada, Horton’s collegiate options were limited to Big Sky schools such as Montana and Northern Colorado. The offer from Nevada marked a significant turning point in his career. His journey, however, took another turn in 2022 when Coach Norvell was hired by Colorado State and decided to bring Horton along with him.
At Colorado State, Horton quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the field. In the 2022 season, he recorded 71 receptions for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. The following year, he continued his stellar performance with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns.
Horton’s loyalty and dedication have been frequently highlighted by those around him. Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, emphasized these qualities, saying, "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family." Indeed, Horton's decision to return to Colorado State for one final season, despite opportunities to declare for the NFL Draft or transfer, underscores his commitment.
The current season holds significant promise for Horton and Colorado State. His recent performances, including a spectacular 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and leading the team with 65 yards receiving before being sidelined by an injury, have set a high bar. Coach Norvell is optimistic about his 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."
As a two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection, Horton’s impact on the field is undeniable. Last year, he achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in an intense overtime loss to Colorado. As Colorado State prepares to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, all eyes will be on Horton’s performance.
Horton’s journey from a high school prospect to a standout college receiver is a testament to his talent and perseverance. As he enters his final season at Colorado State, there’s no doubt that his contributions will be pivotal to the team’s success.
With one final season ahead, Horton’s story continues to be one of dedication, skill, and an unwavering commitment to the sport and his team.