Nevada Showcase and Horton Shines: A Journey in Collegiate Football
The Nevada Wolf Pack's 2019 football season had a defining moment when they triumphed over Fresno State, propelling a journey that intertwined with the rise of a talented wide receiver, Tory Horton. Under the leadership of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, the team saw potential in Horton early on and offered him his first scholarship from an FBS program.
Horton's Journey to Recognition
It was a CIF-Central Section playoff game that first brought Horton into the spotlight for Nevada. With Eric Scott in attendance, Horton made an unforgettable impression with a single catch covering 54 yards. His ability to make explosive plays caught the attention of Norvell and his coaching staff, leading to an immediate scholarship offer.
By February 2019, Horton had established himself as a three-star prospect according to 247Sports. Yet, before Nevada's intervention, his collegiate prospects were limited to offers from Big Sky schools Montana and Northern Colorado. The offer from Nevada was a significant step up, setting the stage for Horton's future success.
Horton’s early exposure to competitive football came through his participation in No Zone, a talented 7-on-7 team. “We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level,” said Mike Ware, Horton’s 7-on-7 coach. Indeed, No Zone was a breeding ground for future stars, including Division I receivers Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena.
Making an Impact at Nevada and Colorado State
Horton's talents weren’t just noticed; they were developed. When Jay Norvell moved to Colorado State in 2022, he brought Horton along. The move proved fruitful as Horton recorded 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns that season, signaling his rise as a formidable receiver.
The 2023 season saw Horton build further on his impressive stats, with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite offers to declare for the NFL Draft or transfer via the portal, Horton chose loyalty over ambition, opting to return to Colorado State for one final season. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," noted Chad Savage, a graduate assistant at Colorado State.
Challenges and Triumphs
His decision to stay paid dividends on the field. Horton continued to light up the stats board, but it wasn’t without its challenges. In a recent game, Horton dazzled fans with a 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving before an injury sidelined him. Despite the setback, Horton remains a crucial player for the Rams. "Tory is sore but I think he's going to be available to play, so we'll see how he progresses over the week," Norvell affirmed, highlighting the anticipation surrounding Horton's return to the field.
Horton’s career at Colorado State has been nothing short of remarkable. A two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection, he has consistently showcased his capabilities, never more so than in a thrilling overtime loss to Colorado last year where he achieved a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown.
A Glimpse into the Future
As Horton enters his final season with Colorado State, the anticipation builds. The Rams are set to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, a game where Horton is expected to play a pivotal role. His journey from a relatively unknown prospect to a celebrated collegiate athlete is a testament to his skill, dedication, and the faith of his coaches.
Horton’s story is far from over. As he gears up for one last season with the Rams, fans and scouts alike will be watching closely, eager to see where his remarkable journey will take him next. Whether it's breaking records at the collegiate level or making a name for himself in the NFL, one thing is certain: Tory Horton is a name to remember in the world of football.