Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia faces another test in Heisman campaign vs. Missouri

Diego Pavia put the college football world on notice after his Heisman performance in the 31-24 win over the 10th-ranked LSU Tigers last week. There was no question the Commodores explosive offense was in control all game. 

Pavia completed 14-of-22 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown and added 17 carries for 86 yards and another two touchdowns on the ground. He showcased his dual-threat ability against a tough LSU defense that had only allowed 11.8 points per game. No other team this season has scored more than 24 points on the Tigers.  

Throughout the game, Pavia showed good decision-making. It led to his zero-turnover performance in a big SEC matchup. Scoring three touchdowns is no easy feat, especially against a defense that does not allow a lot of points. Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea said he thinks Pavia is the ‘best player in college football.’ “You can’t watch him play and not realize what a game-changer he is.” 

Vanderbilt’s secret weapon? Diego Pavia’s ARM. The film proves it pic.twitter.com/8vrtifG1Gz

Pavia has 1,569 passing yards and 15 touchdowns with only four interceptions and a 70.5% completion percentage. On the ground, he has 438 yards on 77 carries and four touchdowns. He has an 85.2 quarterback rating, good for seventh-best in the nation. 

With Pavia as the signal caller, Vanderbilt has transformed into being a serious CFP contender. The Commodores are now 6-1 on the season and are in great shape to get bids for a shot at a national championship. The confidence that Pavia plays with is at the next level and impacts his team in a positive manner.  

Vanderbilt is currently ranked No. 10 in the AP top 25 poll. They face No. 15 Missouri for another SEC showdown at home on October 25 at 3:30 p.m. ET.  

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