Diego Pavia Shines as Heisman Trophy Finalist for Vanderbilt

Four finalists will compete for college football’s most prestigious accolade, the Heisman Trophy, on December 13, 2023. Among them is Diego Pavia, the standout quarterback from Vanderbilt University. His remarkable journey has sparked discussions about whether his performance this season truly warrants consideration for the coveted award.

Pavia’s rise in Nashville has been nothing short of extraordinary. In just two seasons, the Albuquerque, New Mexico native has transformed a program historically known more for academics and baseball than football into a national contender. Under his leadership, the Commodores achieved a historic 10-2 record this season, marking the first time the school has reached ten wins in a single year.

The graduate student transfer from New Mexico State finished the season with impressive statistics: 3,192 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions, completing 71.2% of his passes. Additionally, he led Vanderbilt in rushing with 826 yards and nine touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the nation’s most productive dual-threat quarterbacks.

Pavia not only set school records for passing yards and touchdowns in a season but also made history as the first player from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) to achieve four consecutive games with at least 400 yards of total offense. His performance stands out, especially when compared to his fellow finalists.

While Julian Sayin of Ohio State and Fernando Mendoza of Indiana thrived with deep collections of skill talent and strong defenses, Pavia has carried much of the load for Vanderbilt. Sayin has enjoyed the benefit of elite weapons and the nation’s top-ranked defense, while Mendoza played behind one of the Big Ten’s most balanced rosters. In contrast, Vanderbilt’s defense ranked in the middle of the pack nationally, leaving little margin for error.

Pavia’s role as the primary engine of the Commodores has been critical. He consistently created offensive opportunities in the highly competitive SEC, often without the luxury of a dominant run game or the chance to rest during late-game snaps. His ability to lead his team through challenging matchups has reshaped expectations for a program that had been dormant for decades.

The Heisman Trophy not only honors individual excellence but also reflects the impact a player has on their team. By this measure, Pavia’s influence on Vanderbilt has been undeniable. His transformative performance has elevated the program’s status in college football, prompting discussions among voters about his candidacy.

The Heisman Trophy ceremony will take place at Lincoln Center in New York City, starting at 19:00 ET. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Pavia’s remarkable season will earn him the recognition he seeks. As the ceremony approaches, the excitement surrounding his candidacy continues to grow, reflecting the broader impact he has had on Vanderbilt football.