Diego Pavia is setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead for Vanderbilt football, and his confidence is contagious. After leading the Commodores to their first winning season in a decade last year, finishing with a commendable 7-6 record and securing their first bowl victory since the James Franklin days, Pavia has reason to believe that the best is yet to come.
On a recent episode of the “Bussin’ With The Boys” podcast, the starting quarterback made some bold predictions that certainly raised eyebrows. “Vanderbilt is going to run Tennessee after this year,” he declared, asserting that the Commodores are poised to redefine college football’s landscape. While it’s clear that Pavia has a vision for the program, not everyone seems to share his enthusiasm.
The reaction from college football fans has been mixed, with some amusement at his optimism. One fan quipped, “This is hilarious,” while another remarked on the reality of Vanderbilt’s visibility in the football world, suggesting that such statements are necessary to garner attention. Comments rolled in reflecting skepticism, with one expressing surprise at Pavia’s confidence, saying, “I thought Vandy was a smart people school.”
Despite the chatter, Pavia’s belief in his team is rooted in a solid 2024 season. Since transferring from New Mexico State, he had an impressive showing, throwing for 20 touchdowns and running for 8 more while keeping interceptions to just four. It’s hard to overlook the upward trajectory Vanderbilt could be on under head coach Clark Lea. Pavia envisions the program becoming a player in the NIL landscape, suggesting that just one standout year could make Commodore football an attractive option for recruits.
However, history presents a backdrop that can’t be ignored. Vanderbilt has never crossed the 10-win mark in a season and hasn’t graced the AP Top 10 since 1947, an uphill battle that stands in stark contrast to Pavia’s lofty aspirations. Yet, he remains undaunted. “We’ve got the firepower, we have the depth,” he insists, making it clear that both the offensive and defensive units are ready to compete. “We’d be selling ourselves short if I was to sit here and tell you we don’t have the faith to go win the national championship.”
As the Commodores gear up for what could be a transformative season, Pavia’s comments serve not only as motivation for his teammates but also as a reminder that in college football, audacity and ambition can sometimes birth success. Whether Pavia and Vanderbilt can truly shake up the SEC remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the spotlight is shining a little brighter on Nashville.
