Johnny Manziel Mentors Vandy QB Diego Pavia Ahead of Alabama Showdown

Nashville, Tennessee – Former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel is showing support for Vanderbilt‘s quarterback Diego Pavia ahead of their game against Alabama this Saturday. Manziel, known for defeating Alabama during his college career, believes Pavia has the potential to replicate that success.

In an interview with On3, Manziel urged Pavia to learn from his own experiences, stating, “I’m like, ‘Learn from my mistakes, brother. Learn from Johnny. Don’t be Johnny off the field.’ …I beat them once. Diego’s got a chance to beat them twice. That’s the kind of shit they build statues for.”

Manziel plans to attend the game wearing a Vanderbilt jersey. He discussed these sentiments on the “Nightcap” podcast with Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson. He also suggested that Alabama no longer instills the same fear in opposing teams as it once did. “In the past, you walk in, face an Alabama team, you’ve probably got a little fear. This is ‘Bama, the team that’s been a dynasty… That fear aspect of what Alabama is is completely gone,” he said.

The current Alabama quarterback recognizes Pavia’s talent. “He’s a dog. Plays with a chip on his shoulder as well. Watching him and their highlights of the season, man, seeing last year, I know he gets a ton of respect from Johnny Manziel,” he commented.

In 2012, Manziel led Texas A&M to a memorable 29-24 victory over Alabama, throwing for 253 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 92 yards. That performance was pivotal in his winning the Heisman Trophy that year. Pavia hopes to make a similarly significant impression. This season, he is averaging 250 passing yards and three touchdowns per game, along with nearly 60 rushing yards, as he leads the 5-0 Commodores.