Diego Pavia becomes first Heisman Trophy finalist in Vanderbilt history
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
Vanderbilt just completed the greatest regular season in program history and now quarterback Diego Pavia is getting rewarded individually.
Pavia was selected on Monday as 1 of 4 finalists for the Heisman Trophy along with Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin.
Pavia is the first Heisman Trophy finalist in Vanderbilt history. The ceremony is Saturday night in New York City.
The 6-foot senior has passed for 3,192 yards with 27 touchdowns and the nation’s No. 4 QBR (87.7) along with rushing for 826 yards and a team-high nine scores. Pavia set program records for passing yards, touchdown passes, and total offense.
Pavia helped guide Vanderbilt to its first 10-win season after defeating in-state rival Tennessee 45-24. Afterwards, Pavia expressed supreme confidence in his abilities and gratitude to accomplish the goal.
“Well, a lot of people thought I was a fool (being confident in his team against the Vols),” Pavia said. “But, all it takes is faith, and I feel He gave me a vision. He gave me a platform. It felt good to come in and back it up.”
Pavia and Vanderbilt will wrap up the season against Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Dec. 31 from Tampa. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ESPN.
