In a significant development for college football, the University of Oklahoma Sooners have successfully secured a commitment from Diego Pavia, the esteemed quarterback and captain of the Vanderbilt Commodores. Pavia’s decision to join the Sooners is poised to bolster Oklahoma’s offensive lineup, given his remarkable track record and leadership qualities.
Pavia’s Stellar Journey
Diego Pavia’s ascent in college football has been nothing short of extraordinary. Originating from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Pavia’s athletic journey began at Volcano Vista High School, where he was a three-sport athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and wrestling. Despite leading his high school team to an 11-0 regular season as a senior, he did not receive an FBS offer, leading him to New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI).
At NMMI, Pavia showcased his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for 1,728 yards and 21 touchdowns, while rushing for 658 yards and seven scores, culminating in an NJCAA National Championship in 2021. His performance earned him a spot at New Mexico State University (NMSU), where he continued to impress. In 2023, Pavia was honored as the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year, leading NMSU to a historic 10-win season—their first since 1960. He amassed 2,973 passing yards with 26 touchdowns and added seven rushing touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as a dynamic quarterback.
Impact at Vanderbilt
Transferring to Vanderbilt University as a graduate student in 2024, Pavia immediately made his mark. As team captain, he led the Commodores to a notable season, highlighted by a 40-35 victory over the then-No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide on October 5, 2024. In that game, Pavia completed 16 of 20 passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns, earning him the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback of the Week and SEC Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Throughout the season, Pavia maintained impressive statistics, completing 177 of 298 passes for 2,293 yards, 20 touchdowns, and only four interceptions. He also rushed for 801 yards and eight touchdowns, setting school records for fewest interceptions (minimum 250 attempts) and rushing yards by a quarterback.
Transition to Oklahoma
Pavia’s move to Oklahoma comes after a legal dispute regarding his eligibility. In November 2024, a federal judge denied Pavia’s request for a temporary restraining order that would grant him an additional year of eligibility at Vanderbilt. The court’s decision was based on procedural grounds, allowing the NCAA an opportunity to defend its rules.
Despite this setback, Pavia’s commitment to the Sooners represents a strategic acquisition for Oklahoma. His dual-threat capabilities and leadership experience are expected to enhance the team’s offensive strategies in the upcoming season. Oklahoma’s coaching staff and fans alike are optimistic that Pavia’s inclusion will propel the Sooners to new heights in collegiate football.
As Diego Pavia embarks on this new chapter with the Oklahoma Sooners, the college football community will be keenly observing how his dynamic playstyle and leadership influence the team’s performance in the forthcoming season.
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