Story perspectives

Coach Defends Pavia Amid Heisman Controversy and Criticism

12/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

Vanderbilt football coach Clark Lea defended quarterback Diego Pavia after his controversial social media post following the Heisman Trophy ceremony.
Pavia finished second to Indiana's Fernando Mendoza and faced backlash for saying, "F--- all the voters," before apologizing.
Pavia finished the season with 3,192 passing yards and will conclude at the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31.
ESPN's Rece Davis and Dick Vitale criticized Pavia's behavior, with Davis admitting he regretted voting for him.

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Story summary

Vanderbilt football coach Clark Lea defended quarterback Diego Pavia after his controversial social media post following the Heisman Trophy ceremony.
Pavia finished second to Indiana's Fernando Mendoza and faced backlash for saying, "F--- all the voters," before apologizing.
Pavia finished the season with 3,192 passing yards and will conclude at the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31.
ESPN's Rece Davis and Dick Vitale criticized Pavia's behavior, with Davis admitting he regretted voting for him.