From Fresno State to Colorado State: Tory Horton's Remarkable Football Journey
Nevada's 2019 football season was a memorable one, marked by a notable victory over Fresno State. At the helm during this exhilarating season was Jay Norvell, then in his third year as head coach. Among the many players under his leadership was a promising young talent named Tory Horton.
The journey of Tory Horton is a testament to perseverance and seizing opportunities. During a CIF-Central Section playoff game, Horton caught the attention of Eric Scott with a remarkable 54-yard reception. This noteworthy performance played a pivotal role in Nevada extending Horton his first FBS scholarship offer.
Since February 2019, Horton had been recognized as a three-star prospect on 247Sports. Despite showing great potential, his collegiate opportunities were limited to Big Sky schools, Montana and Northern Colorado. However, Nevada’s offer marked the turning point in his career.
Horton’s skills were honed in part by his participation in a talented 7-on-7 team named No Zone. This team was a breeding ground for future Division I receivers, including stars like Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level," reminiscently stated Mike Ware, Horton’s Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach.
Nevada head coach Jay Norvell recognized Horton’s potential early on. In 2022, when Norvell took the head coaching position at Colorado State, he brought Horton along with him. This move proved to be mutually beneficial.
At Colorado State, Horton quickly established himself as a standout player. In the 2022 season, he caught 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. His 2023 season was even more impressive, with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite his marketability to NFL scouts, Horton chose loyalty over immediate fame, deciding to return to Colorado State for one final season rather than declaring for the NFL Draft or transferring via the portal. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," emphasized Chad Savage, a graduate assistant close to Horton.
Colorado State, this season, is set to host Colorado for the first time since 1996. Horton, unfortunately, was sidelined last week due to an injury after an electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving performance. Nevertheless, optimism surrounds his return. Speaking on his condition, Jay Norvell reassured, "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week."
During his tenure at Colorado State, Horton has secured his place among the best, earning two-time All-Mountain West first-team selections. Last year’s matchup against Colorado saw Horton achieve a career-high with 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown, albeit in an overtime loss. This record is a testament to his resilience and skill on the field.
As Horton gears up for what is poised to be his final season at Colorado State, his journey stands as an inspiring chronicle of talent, loyalty, and opportunity. His story underscores the unwavering belief in one’s abilities and the importance of having mentors like Jay Norvell who recognize and nurture potential.
With one season left, fans eagerly anticipate more electrifying performances from Horton. His legacy at Colorado State is already cemented, and his future in professional football seems all but assured. As the Rams prepare to take on Colorado, all eyes will be on Tory Horton, watching to see what feats he will add to his already impressive college career.