Image source: Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images
Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia’s family made news again on Saturday—but not for football. During the first half of the 45-24 win over Tennessee, things got out of hand in the stands.
Diego Pavia’s dad ignored repeated warnings from Tennessee staff, who told the family they could not sit or lean over the front row. The argument turned into a fight with nearby fans, and Pavia’s dad was arrested.
His brothers, Javier and Roel, joined in, arguing about SEC rules and reportedly saying, “We’re about to take over this state, you’ll find out!”
After the game, Diego tried to calm things down. On X, he posted a short apology: “Sorry peeps about the first half.”
This is not the first time the Pavia family caused trouble at a game. In August, during the season opener against Charleston Southern, Javier and Roel were charged with public intoxication and resisting arrest. Javier reportedly threw food and made a scene, while Roel was charged with shoving a police officer. Both were released on bail and were scheduled to go to court in September 2025.
The drama continued Saturday. Javier was arrested again—his second arrest of the season—after refusing to take down a flag that blocked other fans’ views. He got into an argument with a Tennessee Highway Patrol officer and was uncooperative. With two family members arrested in one night, the bail costs could be high.
On the field, Diego Pavia continues to impress. He led Vanderbilt to its first-ever 10-win season, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards, 27 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. He also ran for 661 yards and eight touchdowns.
Against Tennessee, Diego Pavia had over 400 total yards and two touchdowns. After one score, he even did a “Heisman” pose on the field. Coach Clark Lea praised him, saying Pavia is “the best player in the country.”
Diego Pavia is now a strong Heisman contender, ranked fourth in the latest betting odds. Whether he wins or not, his historic season and leadership have made him a star at Vanderbilt—and kept fans talking both on and off the field.
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