Diego Pavia Leads Vanderbilt Against Iowa in ReliaQuest Bowl

Diego Pavia will take the field for Vanderbilt University as they face Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31, 2025. Pavia, a standout quarterback, has significantly impacted the 2025 college football season, leading the Commodores to their first bowl appearance in six years and achieving a program-record 10 wins during the regular season. His impressive performance included throwing for 3,192 yards and rushing for another 826, culminating in a total of 36 touchdowns. These accomplishments earned him a remarkable second-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting, the highest for a Vanderbilt player in history.

Pavia’s charisma extends beyond the football field, drawing attention through appearances at UFC events and collaborations with popular figures like podcaster Theo Von. Despite speculation about his future, Pavia confirmed his participation in the bowl game earlier this month, putting to rest any concerns about his availability. His determination to compete aligns with his competitive spirit and the uncertain trajectory of his potential NFL career.

Impact of Eli Stowers’ Absence

While Pavia will be on the field, he will not have the support of his key offensive weapon, tight end Eli Stowers. The John Mackey Award winner announced he would not participate in the bowl game to focus on preparations for the NFL Draft. Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea expressed his pride in Stowers, stating, “Eli has been such an incredible part of the success of this team, and I’m so proud to have him as a Vanderbilt football alum. His health is our health, and we support him in his decision not to play.”

Stowers’ absence leaves a significant gap in the Commodores’ offense, but Pavia’s leadership and dual-threat capabilities will be vital as Vanderbilt aims for a successful bowl performance against Iowa.

Pavia’s Eligibility and Future Prospects

Pavia’s college football journey has been remarkable, spanning six seasons and including four at the FBS level. Despite this, his remaining eligibility remains uncertain. Following a court ruling in December 2024 that extended his eligibility, Pavia is part of a lawsuit against the NCAA concerning rules that impact players’ eligibility timelines. This lawsuit is particularly pertinent for Pavia, who played two years at the New Mexico Military Institute before transferring to New Mexico State.

The recent decision by the NCAA to allow former professional basketball player James Nnaji to join the Baylor basketball team may bolster Pavia’s case. His attorney, Ryan Downton, has argued that the NCAA’s inconsistent application of eligibility rules is unjust. “When what to my wandering eyes should appear, but … the hypocrisy of the NCAA,” Downton stated, drawing attention to the disparities in eligibility granted to different athletes.

Pavia’s performance in the 2025 season has been impressive, completing 71.2% of his passes for 3,192 yards, along with 27 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Additionally, he has rushed for 826 yards and nine touchdowns. Across his collegiate career, he has amassed a total of 9,908 passing yards, 86 touchdowns, and 3,062 rushing yards, solidifying his potential as a valuable player moving forward.

As the ReliaQuest Bowl approaches, all eyes will be on Diego Pavia, who is poised to leave a lasting legacy at Vanderbilt University and potentially transition to the professional level. With his competitive nature and impressive skill set, Pavia’s performance against Iowa could significantly influence his future in football.