Vanderbilt has not been a program historically associated with Heisman conversations, which makes Diego Pavia’s rise even more surreal for the school. With Pavia emerging as a genuine favorite late in the race, the Commodores are navigating unfamiliar territory.
This kind of national recognition has rarely flowed through Nashville. And with the possibility of the school’s first Heisman becoming real, even Clark Lea has found humor in how unprepared the program is for a moment this big.
During his recent appearance on Hot Mic, Lea was asked whether he planned to join in the celebrations if Pavia ultimately wins the award. He admitted that he wouldn’t be out partying with anyone.
He jokingly said that he’s too old for that now, but made it clear that he would be thrilled for his quarterback. Lea then shifted into a lighthearted reflection about how Vanderbilt isn’t exactly equipped for Heisman-level hardware.
He said that the program doesn’t currently have a proper place to display such a trophy and joked that they might have to set it on the snack station for now.
“The idea that we could have a Heisman Trophy in our lobby,” Lea said. “I made this joke last week that I don’t have a place to put it right now, we’d probably set it on the snack station.”
LOL: @Coach_Lea says he probably won’t be partying with @diegopavia02 after he wins the Heisman but insists, “This is just the beginning.” More trophies are coming for @VandyFootball. pic.twitter.com/ZnmnPk761q
— OutKick (@Outkick) December 8, 2025
He added that with new facilities being planned, they’ll need to design a trophy case worthy of what they hope is only the beginning of more individual honors and, ultimately, team accomplishments.
For Lea, Pavia’s rise is not just a personal milestone for the quarterback, it’s a sign that Vanderbilt football is entering a new era.
Diego Pavia’s Heisman Odds
Pavia has surged into legitimate Heisman contention, climbing into the top group of candidates as the season winds down. Most major sportsbooks place him among the three strongest contenders. FanDuel has ranked him second with +185, only behind Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza.
DraftKings has put Pavia at number three with +330, behind Mendoza and Julian Sayin. That puts him within reach of the trophy but still slightly behind the front-runner pack.
Pavia has thrown for over 3,100 yards with 27 touchdowns while limiting turnovers (8), but what separates him is his dual-threat ability. He has added more than 800 rushing yards and close to double-digit rushing scores, giving him some of the best total-offense numbers in the country.
In numbers alone, Pavia seems to be the obvious winner. However, there’s a lot more that goes into the final consideration for the coveted trophy. Regardless, he is a very strong contender for the honor this year.
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