Diego Pavia apologizes for ‘disrespectful’ comment toward Heisman Trophy voters
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Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has issued an apology for what he acknowledged was a “disrespectful” remark aimed at Heisman Trophy voters on Sunday.
Pavia wrote “F-all the voters” in an Instagram post early Sunday morning, hours after finishing in 2nd place in Heisman voting behind Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
In addition to his apology, Pavia also confirmed he will play for the Commodores one last time as they battle Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl on New Year’s Eve. Here’s his statement in-full:
Being a part of the Heisman ceremony last night as a finalist was such an honor. As a competitor, just like in everything I do I wanted to win. To be so close to my dream and come up short was painful. I didn’t handle those emotions well at all and did not represent myself the way I wanted to. I have much love and respect for the Heisman voters and the selection process, and I apologize for being disrespectful. It was a mistake, and I am sorry.
Fernando Mendoza is an elite competitor and a deserving winner of the award. I have nothing but respect for his accomplishments as well as the success that Jeremiyah and Julian had this season.
I’ve been doubted my whole life. Every step of my journey I’ve had to break down doors and fight for myself, because Ive learned that nothing would be handed to me. My family has always been in my corner, and my teammates, coaches and staff have my six. I love them — I am grateful for them. — and I wouldn’t want anything to distract from that. I look forward to competing in front of my family and with my team one more time in the ReliaQuest Bowl.
Although Pavia came up short of winning the Heisman Trophy, he did become the first player in Vanderbilt history to be a finalist for the prestigious award.
Vanderbilt and Iowa will kickoff at 12 p.m. ET on Dec. 31.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
