Horton's Journey: From Fresno to Colorado State Stardom
The 2019 Nevada football season marked a pivotal moment in the career of Tory Horton. Under the leadership of third-year head coach Jay Norvell, Nevada triumphed over Fresno State. However, it wasn't just the victory that garnered attention - it was also the emergence of Horton as a promising talent in the world of college football.
During a CIF-Central Section playoff game that was attended by Eric Scott, Horton showcased his potential with a remarkable catch for 54 yards. This performance caught the eye of Nevada's coaching staff, eventually leading to the school extending a scholarship offer to Horton. This offer held particular significance, being his first from an FBS program. Before this, Horton’s opportunities were limited to Big Sky schools Montana and Northern Colorado.
From that point, Horton's trajectory started to ascend. A three-star prospect since February 2019 on 247Sports, Horton was also a valuable member of a talented 7-on-7 team known as No Zone. The team boasted future Division I receivers like Xavier Worthy, Jalen McMillan, Jeremiah Hunter, and Mac Dalena. Reflecting on his teammates, Horton's Fresno-based 7-on-7 coach, Mike Ware, remarked, "We had all those receivers on No Zone, and now they're doing the same, if not better, at the next level."
Norvell's belief in Horton was evident as he took Horton with him when he transitioned to Colorado State in 2022. At Colorado State, Horton quickly proved his worth. The 2022 season saw him catch 71 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns, making an immediate impact.
Building on his impressive 2022 performance, Horton kicked off the 2023 season on an even brighter note. Recording 96 receptions for 1,136 yards and eight touchdowns, he became an essential asset to the Colorado State offense. His decision to stay at Colorado State for one final season, instead of declaring for the NFL Draft or transferring via the portal, speaks volumes about his loyalty and commitment. "He's a loyal kid and comes from a loyal family," said Chad Savage, a graduate assistant, praising Horton’s dedication.
Horton also had a standout performance in last year's overtime loss to Colorado, achieving a career-high 16 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown. His electrifying 78-yard punt return for a touchdown and a team-high 65 yards receiving were testament to his capabilities before an injury briefly sidelined him last week. However, Jay Norvell expressed optimism about Horton's 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 Colorado State gears up to host Colorado for the first time since 1996, all eyes will be on Horton. He has become a linchpin for his team, earning two-time All-Mountain West first-team selection honors. His journey from being overlooked by major collegiate programs to becoming a standout at Colorado State is a testament to his hard work and determination.
Horton's final season in college football is not just about personal achievement, but also about the legacy he leaves behind. His story is a compelling reminder of how talent, when recognized and nurtured, can transcend initial limitations and flourish on bigger stages. As fans and scouts eagerly watch, Horton’s journey from Fresno to becoming Colorado State’s star receiver continues to inspire.