The Vanderbilt Commodores have had their best season so far, ending it with a 10-2 overall record (6-2 in the SEC) and could qualify for the College Football Playoffs. As they did not qualify for the SEC title game on Saturday, their fate now lies with the CFP Committee. Vandy quarterback Diego Pavia was then seen with his offensive line teammates at UFC 323, and he has a plea for the committee.
“Now just put us in the Playoffs,” he said as he was arriving at UFC 323.
“Now just put us in the Playoff.” 🍿
Diego Pavia and his O-Line pulled up to #UFC323 🔥 pic.twitter.com/0MkFowYd1D
— ESPN (@espn) December 7, 2025
Vanderbilt is currently ranked No. 14 in the CFP rankings, possibly missing out on those 12 spots for the postseason.
Now, No. 9 Alabama did lose the SEC title game to No. 3 Georgia, which could bring down Alabama’s ranking and improve Vandy’s chances. However, its chances are relatively low so far, as there are still many teams ahead of them in the rankings.
Diego Pavia and his crew are not playing any games during conference championship week and are just hoping that some of the teams ranked above them would lose. They must then rise to at least No. 10 in the rankings to actually qualify, which means that the Commodores are a bit of a long shot to make it. However, they still have a chance, especially with Alabama and BYU possibly dropping out of contention after their championship losses.
Diego Pavia Wins Prestigious Individual Award For Quarterbacks
Meanwhile, as Diego Pavia and his Vanderbilt teammates await their fate, the Commodores’ QB1 was just awarded the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, which is given to the top upperclassman quarterback in college football. As the name suggests, it is named after NFL Hall of Famer Johnny Unitas.
Pavia soon commented on his individual award win, saying he is grateful.
“I appreciate that,” he said. “That’s an awesome accomplishment. I’m super grateful for you guys giving me such a prestigious award.”
Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea also gave a bold prediction, saying that this would be the “first of many” awards for the quarterback. Pavia will officially receive the award during a livestream on Dec. 12. He is also a candidate to win the Heisman but is considered a long shot.
Related:
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Why Isn’t Texas A&M In The SEC Championship? Conference Tiebreaker Rules Explained
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