Rising Star Tory Horton Shines at Colorado State, Cementing Legacy
Nevada's 2019 football season offered a glimpse into the burgeoning talent of Tory Horton, a big playmaker who has since become a vital asset for Colorado State. Under the guidance of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, Nevada emerged victorious against Fresno State, signaling the start of Horton's upward trajectory in collegiate football.
Horton’s journey to prominence began with a significant milestone: his first scholarship offer from an FBS program, extended by Nevada. His performance in a CIF-Central Section playoff game, with a single catch for 54 yards observed by Nevada's Eric Scott, marked the beginning of a promising career. By February 2019, he had already garnered a three-star prospect rating from 247Sports. Horton was a critical component of the No Zone 7-on-7 team, which boasted future Division I receivers 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," Mike Ware, Horton’s Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach, remarked proudly.
Before Nevada's keen interest, Horton's prospects were limited to offers from Big Sky schools Montana and Northern Colorado. However, everything changed with Norvell’s arrival at Colorado State in 2022, as he took Horton under his wing. The decision paid off handsomely: Horton caught 71 passes, amassing 1,131 yards and scoring eight touchdowns in the 2022 season. Showing an incredible consistency, Horton followed this with 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2023 season.
Horton’s dedication to Colorado State is unwavering. Despite opportunities to declare for the NFL Draft or transfer via the portal, he chose to return for one final season. His loyalty hasn't gone unnoticed. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," said Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, encapsulating Horton’s commitment.
Colorado State will host arch-rival Colorado for the first time since 1996, and Horton’s recent performances suggest he’s gearing up for a standout season. Even as an injury sidelined him last week after an electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving, head coach Jay Norvell remains optimistic. "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 indicated, hinting at Horton’s potential return to the lineup.
A two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection, Horton has left an indelible mark on Colorado State. His career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown in last year’s overtime loss to Colorado is a testament to his skill and resilience. As he prepares for his final season, fans and teammates alike look forward to seeing Horton’s extraordinary talent on full display once more.
Horton's journey from a little-known high school prospect to a collegiate football star is a story of talent, hard work, and steadfast loyalty. It’s a story that's still being written, and as Horton suits up for Colorado State, he carries the pride and hopes of his team and community with him onto the field.