Is Diego Pavia Playing Today? The Final Word on the Vanderbilt QB

For Vanderbilt fans and college football bettors, the status of star quarterback Diego Pavia is the only question that matters on this New Year’s Eve. The Commodores are set to face the Iowa Hawkeyes in the ReliaQuest Bowl, and all eyes are on the signal-caller. After weeks of speculation, we have a definitive answer.

Yes, Diego Pavia is playing today. Despite dealing with an undisclosed injury that required an MRI earlier in the week, Pavia has been confirmed active and will suit up for Vanderbilt against Iowa. This news comes directly from the player himself and multiple official reports, providing a major boost to the Commodores’ bowl game hopes.

Official Confirmation: Pavia is Active for the ReliaQuest Bowl

The uncertainty began on Monday when Vanderbilt coach Jerry Kill stated Pavia was pending an MRI but that he was “cautiously optimistic” his QB could play. That optimism has turned into reality. Multiple sources, including team reports and national outlets, have confirmed Pavia will start. Notably, this decision comes even as Pavia prepares to declare for the upcoming NFL Draft, showing his commitment to finishing the season with his team.

“The positive news for Vanderbilt is that quarterback Diego Pavia will suit up, even as he prepares to declare for the NFL Draft.” – Pro Football Network

Pavia’s 2025 Season Stats at a Glance

Understanding why Pavia’s presence is so critical requires a look at his phenomenal 2025 campaign. His dual-threat capability has been the engine of Vanderbilt’s offense.

*Rushing total is an estimate based on season performance; specific bowl game stats are not included.

Context: The Logan Fife Confusion

Some search confusion arises because Diego Pavia previously played for New Mexico State. Current New Mexico State Aggies quarterback Logan Fife is dealing with an injury and is ruled out for his team’s game. This has led to mixed search results. To be perfectly clear:

What’s Next for Diego Pavia?

While Pavia is playing today, his college future is a major topic. He has already played six college seasons and his eligibility for a potential 2026 season is in serious question. In a significant off-field development, Pavia is one of 27 former junior college players who have filed a federal lawsuit seeking the chance to continue playing college football. Regardless of the lawsuit’s outcome, today’s ReliaQuest Bowl is a showcase for his NFL aspirations.

Common Questions

Is Diego Pavia injured for the bowl game?

Pavia was managing an undisclosed injury that required an MRI earlier in the week. However, he has been cleared to play and will start for Vanderbilt against Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

Has Diego Pavia declared for the NFL Draft?

Yes, multiple reports confirm that Pavia is preparing to declare for the NFL Draft. His decision to play in today’s bowl game is seen as a testament to his commitment to the Vanderbilt program.

Does Diego Pavia have any college eligibility left for 2026?

It is highly uncertain. Pavia has already utilized six seasons of college football. He is part of an ongoing federal lawsuit with other JUCO players seeking additional eligibility, but as of now, his collegiate career is likely concluding after this bowl game.

Why were there rumors about Logan Fife when searching for Pavia?

Diego Pavia transferred to Vanderbilt from New Mexico State. Logan Fife is the current starting QB at New Mexico State who is injured. Search algorithms sometimes conflate the two due to the New Mexico State connection, but they are different players on different teams with different statuses today.