Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has taken college football by storm as we head into Week 11 of the season, as the Commodores are sitting at a 7-2 record and are No. 16 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings. Vanderbilt’s 7-1 record through its first eight games was the program’s best start since 1941, while a win on Saturday against Auburn would mark the first time the program has reached eight wins since 2013.
Pavia, the New Mexico State quarterback transfer, has thrown for 2,063 yards with 18 touchdowns, while rushing for a team-high 501 yards and six scores this season. Pavia gained plenty of notoriety last season after leading Vanderbilt to an upset win over No. 1 Alabama, marking the Commodores’ first win against the No. 1 team in program history. Pavia has a $2 million NIL valuation, according to On3, ranking 23rd among all of college athletics. A number that may have grown even more on Thursday.
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Vanderbilt’s quarterback Diego Pavia (2) celebrates his go-ahead touchdown against Missouri.© Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
While leading Vanderbilt to history on multiple occasions throughout his couple of seasons in Nashville has helped build his brand, Pavia is one of the biggest personalities in college football. He says whatever comes to mind and has even been spotted practicing the victory formation before games as a sign of his undeniable confidence.
Being the star quarterback at Vanderbilt has allowed Pavia to ink deals with brands like Raising Cane’s, while also frequently hanging out with comedian Theo Von. On Thursday, the quarterback’s portfolio grew, as he announced an NIL deal with a local car wash.
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“Football gives us a platform, but giving back is what matters most,” said Pavia. “I’m proud to partner with Cheetah Clean and rally Commodore Nation for something bigger than the game, and it means a lot to me to support families right here in Nashville.”
Pavia and Vanderbilt will take on Auburn (4-5) on Saturday in a game that will kick off at 4 p.m. ET and air on the SEC Network.
Related: Josh Pate Hints That Lincoln Riley’s Time at USC Could be Coming to an End
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 6, 2025, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.