Vanderbilt football has made history this season with multiple first-team All-SEC selections. Diego Pavia and Eli Stowers received these honors, as announced on Tuesday by the league’s head coaches. This marks the first time since 2013 that the Commodores have achieved this feat, reflecting significant progress in the program.
Dore Duo Earns All-SEC Honors
Both Pavia and Stowers made notable contributions to the success of Vanderbilt this season. Their achievements have placed the Commodores among the top teams in college football.
Historical Context
- Previous first-team All-SEC selections occurred in 2013 with Kenny Ladler and Jordan Matthews.
- Two offensive players were recognized in a season for the first time since 2005.
Individual Achievements
- Diego Pavia: A graduate quarterback from Albuquerque, New Mexico, has made significant strides this season.
- Named a Heisman Trophy finalist, he has 4,018 total offensive yards and 36 touchdowns.
- Pavia leads the SEC with a 171.5 pass efficiency rating and a completion percentage of 71.2.
- He has been recognized as SEC Offensive Player of the Week three times.
- Eli Stowers: A tight end from Denton, Texas, he has also excelled this season.
- He has recorded 62 receptions for 769 yards and four touchdowns.
- Stowers ranks first among all tight ends nationally in catches.
- He was a semifinalist for several awards, including the John Mackey Award and Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award.
Team Success
Together, Pavia and Stowers have contributed to Vanderbilt’s impressive 10-2 record this season. Their performance has secured the team a spot in the top 15 of the College Football Playoff and Associated Press rankings.
Upcoming Bowl Game
The Commodores are set to play against Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl. The game will take place in Tampa, Florida, on December 31, airing at 11 a.m. CT on ESPN.
The achievements of Pavia and Stowers underscore not only their personal talent but also the revitalization of the Vanderbilt football program. As they prepare for their bowl game, the future looks bright for this duo and the Commodores.
