Nevada Football's Season and Coaching Changes
Nevada's 2019 football season featured notable highlights, including a victory over Fresno State under the guidance of third-year head coach Jay Norvell. This win marked a significant achievement for Norvell and the team during his tenure with the Wolf Pack.
Amidst these triumphs, one player who began to emerge was Tory Horton, a talent who would embark on an impressive collegiate journey. During a CIF-Central Section playoff game that Nevada assistant coach Eric Scott attended, Horton showcased his potential with a standout catch for 54 yards. This performance caught the attention of the Nevada staff, leading to Horton receiving his first scholarship offer from an FBS program. Before this offer, his collegiate prospects were limited to Big Sky schools like Montana and Northern Colorado.
Horton's Journey and Achievements
Rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports since February 2019, Horton honed his skills as part of the No Zone 7-on-7 team, where he played alongside future Division I receivers such as 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," noted Mike Ware, Horton’s Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach.
When Jay Norvell transitioned to the head coaching position at Colorado State in 2022, he brought Horton along, setting the stage for Horton's continued development. In the 2022 season at Colorado State, Horton made an immediate impact, catching 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns. Building on this momentum, Horton tallied 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2023 season, further solidifying his reputation as a key player.
Injury and Resilience
Despite facing setbacks, Horton's resilience was evident. Last week, Horton electrified the game with a 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury sidelined him. His commitment to the team and his determination to play through adversity were clear. "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week," Jay Norvell commented.
A standout two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection, Horton has proven his worth on the field. He achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Returning for Another Season
Horton made the decision to return to Colorado State for one final season, foregoing the opportunity to declare for the NFL Draft or transfer via the portal. This decision highlights his loyalty and dedication. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," said Chad Savage, a graduate assistant who has worked closely with Horton.
As Colorado State prepares to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, Horton's presence on the field will be pivotal. With one final season left at Colorado State, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this devoted player continues to leave his mark on the program.
Horton's journey from a promising high school athlete to a standout collegiate receiver exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required to succeed at the highest levels of college football. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, showcasing the impact of hard work, talent, and the right opportunities.