Diego Pavia and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt">Vanderbilt Commodores</a> put on a show in the 2025 NCAA season. However, their 10-2 record may come back to bite them when the College Football Playoffs Committee decides which schools will make the 12-team postseason. On that note, the Heisman candidate issued a sincere request to President Donald J. Trump.



Pavia and the Commodores finished the season with a statement victory on the road over the rivals, Tennessee Volunteers. However, it seems it wasn’t enough as the CFP Committee currently places Vanderbilt at the 14th spot. As it stands, the school in Nashville will be falling right at the gates of the postseason.



On that note, Pavia isn’t afraid to go straight to the top, asking President Trump to make an executive decision to expand the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">College Football</a> Playoffs. If that were to happen, Vanderbilt would surely be in the mix. However, fans in Music City shouldn’t hold their breath.



“Make the executive order please!,” Diego Pavia stated through a post on X, tagging Trump, and asking for him to order the expansion of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> postseason.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251203_BUS_538325_diego-pavia_1bb7e685.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Diego Pavia" class="wp-image-538326"></figure><figcaption>Diego Pavia at Neyland Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>The numbers behind Pavia’s season</h2>



Coming into the 2025 NCAA campaign, many expected Pavia to have a tremendous year with Vanderbilt. However, the New Mexico State transfer excelled all expectations, putting on a season which many consider should earn him the Heisman Trophy.


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Through 12 games, Pavia has thrown for 3,192 yards (2nd best in the SEC), 27 touchdowns (1st in the SEC), and 7 interceptions. Moreover, he has led the Commodores’ rushing offense with 826 yards and 9 touchdowns on the ground. 



Pavia finished the year as the leading SEC quarterback in rushing yards and touchdowns. His dual-threat skillset put the entire nation on notice, and earned him a spot in the conversation for the Heisman.



<h2>When are Heisman finalists announced?</h2>



The four Heisman Trophy finalists will be announced on Monday, December 8, at 8 p.m. ET. Thus, this weekend will be decisive for Pavia and the Commodores, as they’ll learn whether they make the Playoffs — and whether the face of the program in Nashville is in the running to join the elite list of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/heisman-champions-through-the-years" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heisman Trophy winners</a>. The Heisman Ceremony will be held on December 13 at 7 p.m. ET.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6930534fe2d53b59fb2f0413" data-title="Who should win the Heisman Trophy?" data-options="4"></div>

Heisman candidate goes up to Donald Trump with five-word request on CFP

Diego Pavia goes up to Donald Trump requesting help for Vanderbilt on College Football Playoffs - Bolavip US

Diego Pavia goes up to Donald Trump requesting help for Vanderbilt

Diego Pavia goes up to Donald Trump requesting help for Vanderbilt on College Football Playoffs

miniaturas

One of the surprise teams of the college football season may well be the Vanderbilt Commodores, who—after an outstanding regular season—are dreaming of reaching the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">College Football</a> Playoff for the first time in program history. Clark Lea, the mastermind behind this success, knows they have plenty of reasons to dream big.



During his Monday press conference, the head coach of this breakout team discussed their realistic chances of making a deep run in the Playoffs and the reasons behind their rise to this decisive stage of the season.



“We’re here because we’ve got a really good football team here,” Clark Lea said. “This is not about narratives and stories. It’s about the facts and the data that support a really good football program. It’s my responsibility to make that case and make sure I’m fighting for a team I believe deeply in, and I believe, with every strand of my being, deserves a chance to compete for a national championship.”



It’s clear that the Commodores are this season’s new underdogs in the NCAAF, and any step forward from here would be a major statement. While they may be coming from behind, nothing—and no one—can take away their belief that they can reach the National Championship Game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_538013_vanderbilt-commodores_f93282b2.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Vanderbilt" class="wp-image-538022"></figure><figcaption>Diego Pavia #2 and Tre Richardson #6 of the Vanderbilt Commodores.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Lea praises his offense’s work</h2>



Much of the team’s sustained success throughout the season has come from the offense led by Diego Pavia. In fact, this is something Clark Lea emphasized in recent comments to the press.


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“Again, I think this group deserves to be competing for a national championship. What a great stage for the most exciting offensive in all of college football,” Lea said. “And when you talk about our offense… we’re No. 1 offensive efficiency, we’re No. 1 in yards per play, we’re No. 2 in DSSR, down-series success rate, we’re No. 3 in points per possession, No. 3 in third-down efficiency, No. 3 in big play percentage, and No. 8 in scoring offense, which includes being No. 4 in points per play. 



“We’ve got the best player in the country playing quarterback for us, Diego Pavia. He is the best in college football and should be a Heisman frontrunner. We believe he belongs in New York and belongs winning that award.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_538013_diego-pavia-1_2fd4643f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Diego Pavia" class="wp-image-538057"></figure><figcaption>Diego Pavia #2 of the Vanderbilt Commodores.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Diego Pavia’s exceptional campaign</h2>



The Vanderbilt Commodores are enjoying an extraordinary, historic season, propelled by the exceptional play of quarterback Diego Pavia, who has cemented himself as a legitimate Heisman Trophy candidate. 



Pavia’s dual-threat mastery has been the engine of the Commodores’ record-breaking success, with his impressive statistics through the regular season including 3,192 passing yards and 27 touchdowns through the air, complemented by a substantial 826 rushing yards and 9 rushing touchdowns. His overall production and leadership have led Vanderbilt to its first-ever 10-win season.

Clark Lea reveals the main reason why Vanderbilt’s rivals should fear his team

Clark Lea reveals the main reason why Vanderbilt’s rivals should fear his team - Bolavip US

If there’s a team in college football that has defied all predictions this season, it’s undoubtedly the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt">Vanderbilt Commodores</a>. Diego Pavia has emerged as the leader of one of the biggest surprises, a team that even managed to take down the Tennessee Volunteers in the final week of the regular season.



The level the quarterback has shown throughout this campaign — especially after his standout performance against the Vols — raises the question of whether Pavia should legitimately be considered a candidate for the Heisman Trophy.



The Commodores’ QB1 himself addressed the situation with the media after the game, noting in a thoughtful reflection that he should at the very least receive an invitation to the New York ceremony to be among the contenders for this prestigious award.



“Take me to New York,” he said. “I feel like you go look at the numbers, you look at what we got here, and obviously, we did something that’s never been done. But it’s just a blessing, man, to be here on this stage, something I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">"Take me to New York."<a href="https://twitter.com/VandyFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VandyFootball</a>&apos;s Diego Pavia letting it be known he wants to be a Heisman finalist 😤 <a href="https://t.co/MSbiAg6cSM">pic.twitter.com/MSbiAg6cSM</a>— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) <a href="https://twitter.com/SECNetwork/status/1994925254808887467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Pavia’s breakout season at Vanderbilt</h2>



Diego Pavia is the undisputed engine behind the Vanderbilt Commodores’ surprisingly successful 2025 campaign. The QB has established himself as one of the SEC’s most dynamic playmakers, seamlessly blending passing precision with rushing threat. 


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His present statistics are outstanding: he has thrown for 2,890 yards and 25 touchdowns, while adding 515 yards and 8 touchdowns on the ground. Pavia’s dual-threat production has revitalized the Vanderbilt offense and is solely responsible for placing the Commodores in the conversation for a major bowl bid, marking the program’s most impactful season in recent memory.



<h2>Other Heisman contenders</h2>



The 2025 Heisman Trophy competition is heating up, with four key players separating themselves from the field in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>‘s most prestigious individual award race.



Leading the pack are quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza of Indiana and Diego Pavia of Vanderbilt, both of whom have engineered surprising success for their programs with standout statistical performances. 



They are fiercely challenged by two elite playmakers: Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, who has been consistently dominant on the ground, and Ohio State’s freshman sensation, quarterback Julian Sayin, whose late-season surge has captured national attention.

Diego Pavia sends strong message after Commodores’ historic win over Tennessee

Diego Pavia sends strong message after Commodores’ historic win over Tennessee - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee">Tennessee</a> suffered a rout at home by Vanderbilt in a game that featured a tight first half with strong defensive adjustments, resulting in a 21-21 tie. However, disaster struck in the second half as the Commodores scored 24 unanswered points in the final two quarters to win the game and crush the Volunteers’ faint playoff hopes.



In reality, not much hope remained for Tennessee even if they had won the game against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt">Vanderbilt</a>; their path to the postseason was already highly improbable and are now practically eliminated, closing their regular season with an 8-4 record.



Josh Jarnagin wrote in his article for WVLT following the defeat: “Tennessee was likely too far behind at No. 19 to get a playoff spot with a win on Saturday,” making it obvious that despite a win, they were not going to make it into the playoffs.



<h2>Tough season for Tennessee</h2>



Following the loss against Vanderbilt, Coach Josh Heupel was candid in admitting that the final game of the regular season, especially the second half, was poor for his team. “An extremely disappointing second half led to an extremely disappointing ultimate result,” Heupel said.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Josh Heupel and the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vols?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vols</a> walk off the field following a 45-24 loss to Vanderbilt. It marks Tennessee’s first loss to Vandy at home since 2017. <a href="https://t.co/G6pnXjyYnS">pic.twitter.com/G6pnXjyYnS</a>— Sam Rothman (@samrothman_) <a href="https://twitter.com/samrothman_/status/1994923318550601965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



The coach was particularly harsh on his team’s defense, which allowed Vanderbilt too many rushing yards, notably from quarterback Diego Pavia, who racked up 165 rushing yards and a touchdown. “The (defensive) performance here tonight was not anywhere near the standard for Tennessee football.”


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Last season was a strong year for Tennessee, with a 10-3 record signaling that 2025 might also finish with ten or more victories. However, from 2020 until today, the Volunteers have achieved only two seasons with 10+ wins (the other being in 2022).

Is Tennessee eliminated from playoff contention after losing to Vanderbilt today?

Is Tennessee eliminated from playoff contention after losing to Vanderbilt today? - Bolavip US

Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns have been dealt a tough hand as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arch-manning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arch Manning</a> may be out for the showdown against the Vanderbilt Commodores. However, the head coach is confident his program is built to withstand any adversity in the 2025 NCAA season.



Finally, the Longhorns are back in The Lone Star State for their first home game in over a month. Though Manning, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/steve-sarkisian" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarkisian</a>, and company did play in Dallas during the Red River Showdown, the burnt orange hasn’t played in Austin since September 20’s 55-0 triumph over the Sam Houston Bearkats.



Now, the No. 9 Commodores present a much tougher challenge for Sarkisian and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Longhorns</a> than the Bearkats. As for Manning, whether he is medically cleared to play or not, remains to be seen. Regardless, Sarkisian is putting Vandy in notice with a bold statement on the Longhorns’ offense.



“We haven’t changed anything we’ve done. Our system has been our system,” Sarkisian said about the offense amid Manning’s absence in practice, via Inside Texas. “I know that his coaches and teammates have the utmost confidence and respect for Matt Caldwell. He performs really well. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251030_BUS_518358_steve-sarkisian-5-1-1024x576_c01fe277.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Steve Sarkisian" class="wp-image-492432" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the Texas Longhorns </figcaption></figure>



“I know you guys have a very small sample size of what you’ve seen in game, but he gives us a ton of confidence in the way he practices everyday, the way that he works. Naturally, he’s been thrown into the fire here a couple different times in SEC play and has performed very well. The gameplan is the gameplan. I think all of his teammates have a ton of confidence in him if it’s his time to go.”


 

 

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<h2>Update on Manning</h2>



Though Coach Sark and Texas are confident Caldwell can guide the Longhorns to victory if his number is called up, the ideal plan would be for Manning to be under center. However, that is still up in the air, and the sophomore quarterback is still in the NCAA’s concussion protocol. Regardless, Manning is sending the right signals in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> season.



“Both Arch [Manning] and Michael [Taaffe] practiced again today. I don’t have anything beyond that for Arch just because we have to follow the protocol and the days and the rest. Arch has made good progress as well as Michael,” Sarkisian told reports at The Forty Acres.



With or without Manning, the end goal remains the same for Texas. The Longhorns (6-2, 3-1 SEC) have no room for error in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>. Another loss to a ranked program could be the final nail in the coffin for the Horns. As for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> (7-1, 3-1 in league play), a win on the road at DKR–Texas Memorial Stadium would further cement its place as a bona fide contender for the SEC title and the College Football Playoff.

Texas Longhorns’ offense remains unbothered without Arch Manning, Steve Sarkisian warns Vanderbilt

Arch Manning’s favorite weapon breaks silence on Matthew Caldwell stepping up for Longhorns

Steve Sarkisian reveals new development on Arch Manning’s injury recovery as Texas prepares for Vanderbilt

Texas Longhorns' offense remains unbothered without Arch Manning, Steve Sarkisian warns Vanderbilt - Bolavip US

Longhorns' offense remains unbothered without Manning, Sarkisian warns Vanderbilt

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arch-manning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arch Manning</a>’ status for the upcoming Texas Longhorns–Vanderbilt Commodores game remains uncertain. While Clark Lea has no intel on which quarterback to prepare for in Steve Sarkisian’s offense, he made it clear his team is preparing for all scenarios. As Lea noted, the Commodores aren’t letting anything to chance.



Though in the dark, Vanderbilt is doing its thorough evaluation of the offense in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas</a>. Whether it’s Manning, Matthew Caldwell, or even freshman KJ Lacey under center, Lea and the Commodores won’t be found flat-footed during their visit to Austin.



On that note, the 43-year-old head coach in Nashville delivered a powerful statement on his opponent’s quarterback room. Mostly, he spoke on Manning, who has been on the spotlight during the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> season. 



“Both really good players. Both have the arm talent and ability to throw it. Arch has shown his ability to run the ball and be a physical runner, too. He can make you pay for that. With him, you see the elite talent. All the recognition he gets, he gets for a reason,” Lea admitted during his press conference ahead of the game, via On Texas Football.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251029_BUS_517444_arch-manning-2-2-1024x576_1592e77a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Arch Manning walking into stadium" class="wp-image-513789" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Arch Manning at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on December 21, 2024 in Austin, Texas. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Keeping them in check</h2>



It’s far from ideal, but this is the hand that’s been dealt to Lea and the Commodores. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> must double its tape study on Texas’ quarterbacks, as either one of them can get the nod under center on Saturday. So far, it seems the school in Nashville is doing its due research just fine.


 

 

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“There are things that make them unique. I think their skillsets are similar,” Lea added. “We know a little more about Arch this season because he’s played more snaps. But both have the ability to be dangerous and a threat. Again, so much of this is about the supporting cast out there, too.”



<h2>Chasing history</h2>



Sitting near the top of the standings with a 7-1 overall record in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> and a 3-1 mark in the SEC, No. 9 Vanderbilt faces the biggest opportunity in program history. Lea and the Commodores are two wins away from tying their best win total in a year. 



Vandy has won nine games in a season four times in its history (1904, 1915, 2012, and 2013). Now, with four games left in the 2025 college football season—and two of them against unranked programs—a win over Texas could put the Commodores in position to record their best season ever.

Clark Lea makes sincere admission about Arch Manning as Vanderbilt remains in the dark on Texas’ starting QB

Steve Sarkisian, Texas seeking answers from SEC on hit that injured Arch Manning vs Miss. State

Clark Lea makes sincere admission about Arch Manning as Vanderbilt remains in the dark on Texas’ starting QB - Bolavip US

Lea makes sincere admission about Manning as Vanderbilt remains in the dark on Texas’ starting QB

With or without <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arch-manning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arch Manning</a>, Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns know their NCAA season is on the line during their matchup with the Vanderbilt Commodores. On that note, the head coach addressed the latest development around the starting quarterback.



Manning is doing everything on his power to be back in the huddle on Saturday when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Longhorns</a> host the Commodores at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. However, there’s only so much he can actually do to recover from his injury and complete the NCAA’s concussion protocol.



On that note, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/steve-sarkisian" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarkisian</a> provided an update on where Manning stands as the Horns gear up for a pivotal meeting with the Commodores in Austin. Whether Manning will be in the game or backup Matthew Caldwell will take over the huddle against Vanderbilt remains to be seen.



“Both Manning and Michael Taaffe practiced here today. Arch is obviously still in protocol. There are steps as it pertains to protocol,” Sarkisian admitted during the weekly SEC Coaches Teleconference, via Inside Texas.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251029_BUS_517472_steve-sarkisian-1-1-1024x576_764caac3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Steve Sarkisian of the Texas Longhorns" class="wp-image-517507" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Steve Sarkisian at Davis Wade Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Starkville, Mississippi. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Home sweet home</h2>



Finally, the Horns are headed home. When the burnt orange hosts the Commodores on Saturday, Manning and company will play in Austin for the first time in over a month in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> campaign. Texas hasn’t played in Bat City since the 55-0 win over the Sam Houston Bearkats on September 20. 


 

 

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“Great to be back at home at DKR. Been over a month since our last home game. The challenges of playing on the road in the SEC are obviously daunting,” Sarkisian reminded his team. “To come out of that four-game stretch 3-1 with some tight victories the last couple of weeks, both overtime games, I think speaks to the resiliency and mental toughness that our team has.”



<h2>History</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> and Texas have faced off against each other 13 times in college football history. The school in Nashville holds the upper-hand, as Vandy came out on top 8 times. The Longhorns have won 4 games against the Commodores, and the two sides once tied 5-5 in 1905.



While Sarkisian, Manning, and the Longhorns may feel deflated by the all-time record against the Commodores, most signs actually favor them. Vanderbilt and Texas have met only once in SEC play, with the Horns winning 27-24 last <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> season. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251029_BUS_517472_diego-pavia-1-1024x576_6b044528.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Diego Pavia walking into the field" class="wp-image-501312" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Pavia at FirstBank Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. </figcaption></figure>



Moreover, the last time Vanderbilt defeated Texas was in 1928, which was also the second-to-last meeting between the two programs. Determined to win in their first-ever game in Austin, the Commodores would improve to 8-1 (4-1 in league play) and virtually eliminate the Longhorns (6-2, 3-1 SEC) from postseason contention.

Steve Sarkisian provides discouraging Arch Manning injury update ahead of Texas vs Vanderbilt

Steve Sarkisian reveals new development on Arch Manning's injury recovery as Texas prepares for Vanderbilt - Bolavip US

Sarkisian reveals new development on Manning's injury recovery as Texas prepares for Vanderbilt

With one of the biggest games of the season on the horizon, Steve Sarkisian delivered troubling news about quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arch-manning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arch Manning</a>. Ahead of a ranked SEC showdown between the Texas Longhorns and Vanderbilt Commodores, the climb only got steeper for the college football program in Austin.



Following Manning’s injury exit during Week 9 of the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> season, Sarkisian addressed the media with a disheartening update on the sophomore quarterback’s status for the upcoming game against Vanderbilt at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.



“[Manning is] in [concussion] protocol right now,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/steve-sarkisian" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarkisian</a> admitted during his press conference per Horns 247. “We’ll have more information as the week goes on.”



<h2>Next man up</h2>



As things stand, Manning is uncertain to play on Saturday against Vanderbilt. However, the show must go on. Sarkisian and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Longhorns</a> can’t afford to dwell on the absence, and instead must focus on gearing up for when the No. 9 Commodores pay them a visit at The Forty Acres.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251027_BUS_516376_steve-sarkisian-6-1024x576_24649fc0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Sarkisian Longhorns HC" class="wp-image-495695" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Steve Sarkisian of the Texas Longhorns.</figcaption></figure>



With Manning sidelined for team practice on Monday, Matthew Caldwell took over the first-team huddle. The transfer from Troy has been tossed onto the field sporadically during the 2025 NCAA campaign. Albeit with little time to prepare, he has shown flashes of great potential in his limited snaps. 


 

 

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Still, actually becoming QB1 and leading the Horns’ offense for an entire game against one of the hottest teams in the country is a different monster than playing hero ball for one play against the Florida Gators or Mississippi State Bulldogs on the road. 



Impressive nevertheless, but commanding an offensive unit requires much more preparation. With a full week ahead, Sarkisian and his staff hope they can get Caldwell where he needs to be if Manning can’t suit up on Saturday when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Commodores</a> march into DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium.



<h2>The kid is up, too</h2>



Though watching Manning go down with a serious head injury was a gut-wrenching sight in Austin, Coach Sark and company have the utmost belief in Caldwell to fill the spot if needed. At the end of the day, the backup quarterback is a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> senior, so he won’t be fazed in the face of adversity.



On a different note, true freshman quarterback KJ Lacey is moving up the ranks of the depth chart as a result of Manning’s injury. The four-star recruit from the class of 2025 has only seen the field once during his first year in Austin. With Manning’s status up in the air, his number might be next in line on Sarkisian’s quick dial. On Monday, Lacey operated as QB2—a role he will hold until Texas has a clearer picture of Manning’s status.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68ffafa690f494b407d213f4" data-title="Who will win on Saturday?" data-options="3"></div>

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Steve Sarkisian provides discouraging Arch Manning injury update ahead of Texas vs Vanderbilt - Bolavip US

Sarkisian provides discouraging Manning injury update ahead of Texas vs Vanderbilt

With the Georgia Bulldogs enjoying a bye week in the 2025 NCAA season, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirby-smart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kirby Smart</a> and his staff can’t stay distracted for too long. As Diego Pavia and the Vanderbilt Commodores host the Missouri Tigers in a pivotal ranked SEC matchup, a five-star QB will be in attendance.



Although Gunner Stockton has played lights out for Smart and the Dawgs, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/georgia-bulldogs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia</a> can’t overlook its recruitment for the future. On that note, the school in Athens is excited about five-star plus quarterback Jared Curtis, who is hard-committed to the University of Georgia.



However, his commitment might be put to the test during the weekend, as reports indicate Curtis will be at FirstBank Stadium, when Pavia and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> take on Mizzou. After all, the magical season put on by the Commodores isn’t in vain. Perhaps, it will pay dividends in the long run for the school in Nashville.



“Vanderbilt shooting its shot with local 5-star QB and Georgia commit Jared Curtis, hosting him for practice,” On3’s Steve Wiltfong reported. He added Curtis will be in attendance during Saturday’s showdown against the Tigers. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251023_BUS_514298_diego-pavia-1-1024x576_c656b74b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Diego Pavia walking into the field" class="wp-image-501312" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Pavia at FirstBank Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Hometown hero</h2>



While all signs indicate Curtis isn’t wavering his commitment to Smart and the Dawgs, fans in Athens should know better than take anything for granted. When it comes to Curtis and Vanderbilt, there’s another layer to the story that is impossible to overlook.


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A five-star-plus quarterback born and raised in Nashville, Curtis might be reconsidering after watching Pavia and the electric Commodores team assembled by head coach Clark Lea. Of course, UGA and Smart have plenty of pull of their own, but the chance to be a hometown hero doesn’t come often in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a>. For Curtis, it might be too good to turn down. Meanwhile, the Dawgs will hope it’s just another case of “too good to be true” and that Curtis remains committed to Georgia, where he is set to arrive as a freshman in 2026.



<h2>Something to keep an eye on</h2>



Curtis is one of the best recruits in the 2026 class. As a result, the 6’3” quarterback has received offers from virtually every powerhouse in college football. Curtis has 40 offers in his portfolio, yet he has hard committed to Georgia, essentially shutting the door on his recruiting process. Still, with reports indicating he is set to visit Vanderbilt, perhaps the door isn’t locked as many believed.



With Georgia pleasantly surprised by Stockton, Smart most likely won’t look elsewhere for a starter in the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> season. Stockton has another year of eligibility remaining, so it’s unlikely Curtis would be a day-one starter in Athens. If he were to stay in Music City and enroll at Vanderbilt, though, the story could be very different. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251023_BUS_514298_kirby-smart-1-1-1024x576_9191bfdf.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kirby Smart of the Georgia Bulldogs" class="wp-image-514323" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kirby Smart at Sanford Stadium on October 18, 2025 in Athens, Georgia. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Decisions</h2>



With Diego Pavia set to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, the QB1 role will be up for grabs in Lea’s offense. Whether Curtis wants to jump into a starting job right away or prefers to learn behind the scenes for a while remains to be seen. 



It all goes to show just how different the journey could be for Curtis if he comes to a crossroads between becoming a Dawg or a Commodore. He is most likely headed to Athens, Georgia, but somehow, someway, Curtis could make his way to the Athens of the South.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68fa803290f494b407d213a3" data-title="How likely is it that Curtis will change his commitment?" data-options="3"></div>

Kirby Smart, Georgia reportedly at risk of having 5-star QB snagged by Diego Pavia’s Vanderbilt

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Kirby Smart, Georgia reportedly at risk of having 5-star QB snagged by Diego Pavia’s Vanderbilt - Bolavip US

Smart, Georgia reportedly at risk of having 5-star QB snagged by Pavia, Vanderbilt

Diego Pavia and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt Commodores</a> were in for a rude awakening amid their magic NCAA season. Though a disappointing loss, falling to the Alabama Crimson Tide on the road is far from season-ending for Clark Lea and the program in Nashville.



It’s all about bouncing back in the 2025 college football campaign. Pavia and Vanderbilt may feel sorrow for their defeat in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a>, but the writing is not on the wall, yet. The Commodores have a bye week to lick their wounds and come back stronger for yet another ranked SEC showdown on October 18. 



While Vanderbilt must turns its focus onto the meeting with the LSU Tigers at home, Pavia is seemingly making plans for his future in the NFL. On that note, he voiced an intriguing comment about coach Lea.



“I love playing for Coach Lea,” Diego Pavia admitted during his post-game press conference. “You know, I told him that I hope he gets an NFL job and he takes me with him. That’s how much I love that guy. I appreciate him for everything he’s done for me. I wouldn’t want to go to battle with any other head coach in the SEC.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251005_BUS_503783_clark-lea-1024x576_832cec68.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-503819" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Clark Lea of the Vanderbilt Commodores</figcaption></figure>



<h2>No, thanks</h2>



Pavia has made it clear this is his final season at the collegiate level. The 24-year-old quarterback began his career at the JUCO level, playing for New Mexico Military Institute in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> doesn’t count that year of eligibility. 


 

 

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Moreover, the sixth-year quarterback earned another year of eligibility due to his JUCO background. While reports hint Pavia could make the case to play one last year in 2026, the Commodores’ signal-caller is convinced of moving on to the next stage.



<h2>Through the ranks</h2>



While the loss in Tuscaloosa will sting for Pavia, Lea, and Vandy going forward, they can’t afford to cry over spilled milk. The SEC schedule will only get tougher, as they now gear up for two straight ranked opponents in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a>. Vanderbilt will take on LSU, Missouri, and Texas (who could return to the top 25) in consecutive weeks. Needless to say, Vanderbilt’s true capacity will be put to the test.

NCAAF News: Diego Pavia voices bold statement to Vanderbilt HC Clark Lea after Alabama loss

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NCAAF News: Diego Pavia voices bold statement to Vanderbilt HC Clark Lea after Alabama loss - Bolavip US

Pavia voices bold statement to Vanderbilt HC Lea after Alabama loss

A heated matchup is brewing on the horizon of the SEC in the 2025 NCAA season. Diego Pavia and the Vanderbilt Commodores will look to deliver yet another statement win over Kalen DeBoer’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama</a> Crimson Tide.



With last year’s showdown in everybody’s recent memory, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> and Alabama will collide in what’s set to be a marquee-game in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> campaign. Ahead of the Commodores’ visit to Tuscaloosa, Pavia dropped a bold message for DeBoer and company.



“The crowd, I think, is going to be a big factor in the game,” Diego Pavia said about the game, via On3. “But we just gotta play within the white lines. If we do that, if we play our game, it won’t be close.”



<h2>How the tables turn</h2>



Last season, Alabama traveled to Nashville with sky-high confidence, boasting a 4-0 record in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a>. The ‘Script A’ was in for a rude awakening as the Commodores ruined their undefeated dreams. Vanderbilt held on at home for a 40-35 victory in an intense shootout. It was the first time the Tennessee school had defeated Alabama since 1984 (excluding vacated or forfeited games). 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251001_BUS_501813_kalen-deboer-4-1024x576_c43f4da7.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kalen DeBoer looking up" class="wp-image-469205" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



That 1984 triumph also marks the last time the Commodores walked out victorious on the road against the Tide. Moreover, it remains Vanderbilt’s lone win in Tuscaloosa in the program’s history.


 

 

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<h2>Chasing history</h2>



Now, Pavia and company will vie to write another historic chapter in the school’s book. This time around, Vanderbilt is walking into Bryant-Denny Stadium with a perfect 5-0 record, and it’s up to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kalen-deboer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeBoer</a> and the Crimson Tide to knock the Commodores off their perch.

Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia issues blunt warning to Kalen DeBoer, Alabama: ‘It won’t be close’

Ty Simpson receives significant injury update on key Alabama teammate after big win vs Georgia

Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia issues blunt warning to Kalen DeBoer, Alabama: 'It won’t be close' - Bolavip US

Vanderbilt's Pavia warns DeBoer, Alabama: 'It won’t be close'

Ty Simpson and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alabama Crimson Tide</a> are gearing up for a crucial showdown with the Vanderbilt Commodores. With last season’s defeat fresh in their memories, the quarterback in Tuscaloosa dropped a bold message for Diego Pavia and company to listen to.



The 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> season has had no shortage of marquee-matchups. This time, a big showdown is brewing in Tuscaloosa as the Crimson Tide and Commodores clash in the SEC. Last year’s defeat on the road still lingers for Simpson and Alabama, but they have learned their lesson.



Now, as undefeated <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt</a> looks to make a statement across <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a>, Alabama’s quarterback delivered a firm reminder to his teammates. However, it might just as well serve as a warning to Pavia and the Commodores.



“I wasn’t playing but I was on the team and so I felt how it was last year,” Simpson admitted, per On3. “The mentality in the locker room this week is ‘we remember what happened last year and what are we going to do about it?’ Even though it’s not about last year, it’s about us, we’re not gonna make the same mistake again.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251001_BUS_501257_diego-pavia-1-1024x576_c0ea5f77.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Diego Pavia walking into the field" class="wp-image-501312" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Pavia at FirstBank Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>What a difference a year makes</h2>



Although it’s impossible for fans across the nation to ignore last season’s historic Vanderbilt triumph, time has passed since. Pavia may still be in command of the offense in Nashville, but Jalen Milroe is no longer under center in Tuscaloosa. It’s Simpson’s huddle now, and he is determined to right their wrongs from a year ago.


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“They’re not the same team as last year and neither are we. They’re better and we’re better in some ways,” Simpson added. “This is a top-25 matchup with College GameDay coming here. 



“This is a really, really good Vanderbilt team and it could be one of the biggest games of the year. We need to come in with the mentality like we’ve had in the last couple of games with a chip on our shoulder. Like it’s Alabama vs. The World.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251001_BUS_501257_ty-simpson-1024x576_cfc2fd58.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ty Simpson looking after the game" class="wp-image-501272" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ty Simpson at Sanford Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Athens, Georgia.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Chasing history</h2>



Pavia has found his place in the world in Nashville with the Commodores. Vanderbilt has fed off the overlooked quarterback’s mentality and is now convinced it can stand up to any program in college football. The Commodores don’t care <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/most-successful-college-football-programs-ever" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how many national championships</a> their opponent has won. 



Nor, do they worry about how many <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/programs-with-the-most-heisman-trophy-winners" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heisman trophy winners</a> or first overall picks in the Draft attended the school. They will walk into any stadium with a chip on their shoulder, determined to spoil the evening for the home fans.


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<h2>Against all odds</h2>



When Vanderbilt walks into Bryant-Denny Stadium, the weight of more than a century of history will be against them. The Crimson Tide has gotten the better of the Commodores time and again, with last season marking the first time in the 21st century that Vanderbilt had the last laugh over Bama. Now, Pavia and company will try to make more history. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68dc4f5e7193bec65e18db3a" data-title="Who will win?" data-options="2"></div>


Alabama owns the all-time record with 60 wins (two later vacated), four ties, and 20 losses. Moreover, Vanderbilt has won just once in Tuscaloosa—back on September 29, 1984. The Commodores did win more games on the road, but back when Alabama played sporadically in Mobile or Birmingham. More than 40 years later, Pavia will lead the charge, hoping to deliver another big blow to Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama.

Alabama QB Ty Simpson issues blunt warning to Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt ahead of long-awaited rematch

Alabama QB Ty Simpson issues blunt warning to Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt ahead of long-awaited rematch - Bolavip US

Alabama QB Simpson warns Pavia, Vanderbilt ahead of rematch

Clark Lea’s Vanderbilt Commodores have been one of the pleasant surprises this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">College Football</a> season, with much of their success credited to the performance of their starting quarterback, Diego Pavia.



His strong current performance in the program, combined with the certainty that this will be his final year, has many beginning to wonder what the definitive future holds for this promising prospect moving forward.



When asked about the situation during the Weekly SEC Teleconference, Lea addressed it cautiously, avoiding specifics but affirming that his intention is to develop him in the best possible way so that he can reach the NFL.



“I don’t pay a lot of attention to all of that at this point,” the HC said. “We’re focused pretty intensely on the climb we face each week. This week is Georgia State. Obviously, I love Diego and support him all the way. What he and I talk about is his launching into an NFL career. That’s what I want to see him do. He deserves that opportunity.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250917_BUS_493802_clark-lea-1024x576_13d6af35.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Clark Lea Vanderbilt Commodores HC" class="wp-image-493838" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach Clark Lea of the Vanderbilt Commodores.</figcaption></figure>



“Obviously, week in and week out, he’s proving he can do it at this level, at the highest level,” Lea also added. “And so I’ll be excited to see him pursue that when his time here is done. Right now, we’re gonna try to get everything we can out of this season, which means we’re going to get everything we can out of this week.”


 


<h2>Season’s biggest surprise</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt">Vanderbilt Commodores</a> have exploded out of the gate this season, achieving a perfect 3-0 record thanks to the stellar play of quarterback Diego Pavia. The senior signal-caller has been the catalyst for the team’s surprising success, showcasing remarkable efficiency and playmaking ability. 



With a 73.5% completion rate, 645 yards, and seven touchdowns through just three games, Pavia has the Commodores in the national spotlight. His performance has not only put Vanderbilt on the map, but it’s also fueling hope for a historic season on West End.


 


<h2>What’s next for the Commodores?</h2>



<ul><li>vs Georgia State, September 20</li><li>vs Utah State, September 27</li><li>@ Alabama, October 4</li><li>vs LSU, October 18</li><li>vs Missouri, October 25</li></ul>

NCAAF News: Commodores’ head coach Clark Lea makes something clear about Diego Pavia’s future

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NCAAF News: Commodores' head coach Clark Lea makes something clear about Diego Pavia's future - Bolavip US

Diego Pavia is expected to be the unquestioned leader of the Vanderbilt Commodores heading into the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">NCAAF</a> season. However, his unexpected absence from the Spring Game raised some eyebrows. While head coach Clark Lea addressed the situation publicly, the question remains — what was the real reason the quarterback didn’t take the field?



While there was speculation that Pavia may have sat out due to a potential injury, head coach Lea clarified that the decision was purely strategic. He explained that the goal was to give more reps to some of the other quarterbacks on the roster, opting to rest Pavia during this type of event.



“There were a few players that we wanted to at least give the option, and really on our end, there’s more to lose than to gain,” Lea said. “Diego’s had a good spring. We’ve limited him a bunch in scrimmage opportunities. I think getting through the bulk of the work was important, but there was nothing he was going to do today that was going to help us win in the fall. That was the reason.



“There were other guys that, if I had it my way, we wouldn’t have played either, but some of the guys just wanted to be out here and play. So we honored that. I’m happy that we were able to stay relatively healthy today.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250413_BUS_375898_Clark-Lea-1-1024x576_389e14f9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Clark Lea Vanderbilt Commodores HC" class="wp-image-375937" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13155412/Clark-Lea-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Clark Lea of the Vanderbilt Commodores looks on in the second quarter of a game against the UNLV Rebels at Allegiant Stadium on September 16, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Rebels defeated the Commodores 40-37. </figcaption></figure>



Since transferring from New Mexico State, Pavia has made a strong impact — passing for 2,293 yards with 20 touchdowns and only four interceptions. On the ground, he added another 800 yards and eight scores, showcasing his dual-threat ability. Without a doubt, keeping the quarterback healthy and in top form will be one of the program’s biggest priorities moving forward.


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<h2>Pavia’s role from the sideline</h2>



Although Diego Pavia was held out of the Spring Game by the coaching staff, the talented quarterback still made his impact felt in a different way. Head coach Clark Lea praised Pavia for stepping into a leadership role on the sidelines — helping his teammates fine-tune their mechanics and offering valuable guidance throughout the game.



“Those guys that aren’t participating—we want them to be engaged,” Lea continued. “I saw a number of guys doing this. Diego wasn’t dressed today, so for him to take a role where he’s putting his energy toward the field, that matters. He’s a leadership presence for us. We wanted him paying attention, helping the quarterbacks, and just being engaged in the day. I appreciate him for doing that.”



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt">Commodores</a> are going all-in for the upcoming College Football season, and that means they’ll need their full roster at peak physical condition. Diego Pavia is aiming to improve on last year’s performance, fully aware that he has a head coach in Clark Lea who can help elevate his game to its highest level.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67fc19770c8fd1e7fdf26f6f" data-title="Can the Commodores be true contenders in the upcoming NCAAF season?" data-options="2"></div>

Commodores HC Clark Lea reveals main reason behind Diego Pavia’s absence from Spring Game

Commodores HC Clark Lea reveals main reason behind Diego Pavia’s absence from Spring Game - Bolavip US

The race for NCAA March Madness is heating up, and as the third month of the year begins, every game becomes a must-win. All eyes in the nation are on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a>, with conference titles being secured and the final spots for the frenzy tournament closing. Vanderbilt Commodores head coach Mark Byington didn’t shy away from the spotlight, embracing it instead with a bold six-word reminder to the rest of the league.



The Commodores have put the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> on notice as they boast a three-game win streak amid one of the toughest stretches in the nation. Vanderbilt has faced six straight ranked opponents, coming out of it with a 3-3 record. 



Byington and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vanderbilt">Vanderbilt</a> are aware of the challenges the SEC schedule presents, but they aren’t shying away from them. Instead, the head coach in Nashville poked the bear recently, sending out a strong warning to the rest of the league.



“We’ve got something to prove,” Byington said, via On3. “And that’s a great motivator. We’ve talked about the NCAA Tournament. We talked about this league. Some people want to run from the challenge of this league. They want to run from the competition.“



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250302_BUS_347103_Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-1024x576_12265eae.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-347133" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02161710/Jason-Edwards-1-of-the-Vanderbilt-Commodores-reacts-to-his-three-pointer-against-the-Missouri-Tiger.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jason Edwards #1 of the Vanderbilt Commodores reacts to his three pointer against the Missouri Tigers in overtime at Vanderbilt University Memorial Gymnasium on March 1, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Iron sharpens iron</h2>



Vanderbilt is looking to shock the entire college basketball landscape with a deep run in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a>, though their spot in the tournament hasn’t been confirmed yet. Regardless, as the Commodores walked out of their toughest stretch of the season with revamped hope and confidence, Byington believes his team is built to win in March.


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“Like I said, six straight-ranked teams. Nobody else is going through that besides the SEC,” Coach Byington added. “What that does is it kind of figures out how strong you are, how good you are, and you better learn along the way. And these guys are doing it.”



<h2>Finish strong</h2>



Vanderbilt will close out the season with games versus Arkansas and at Georgia, which will have huge implications for the Commodores in the SEC tournament. Currently sitting at 10th overall in the SEC, wins over the Razorbacks and Bulldogs could lift Vandy over its competitors and into a first-round bye seed in the conference tournament.

Vanderbilt HC Mark Byington issues strong 6-word warning to the rest of the NCAA ahead of March Madness

Vanderbilt HC Mark Byington issues strong 6-word warning to the rest of the NCAA ahead of March Madness - Bolavip US

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