Vanderbilt’s Pavia Promises Alabama’s Simpson a Rematch

Tuscaloosa, Alabama — After Alabama defeated Vanderbilt 30-14 on October 5, Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia had a confident message for Alabama’s Ty Simpson. This moment was shared by former Alabama coach Nick Saban during ESPN’s College GameDay.

Saban informed panelist Pat McAfee that Simpson recounted their handshake and the words exchanged, stating, ‘We’ll see you again.’ Saban remarked, ‘Your man Diego has all the confidence in the world.’

In the game, Simpson demonstrated his skills, throwing for 340 yards and two touchdowns, despite an early interception. He completed 23 of 30 passes, leading the No. 10 Crimson Tide to victory over the No. 16 Commodores.

Pavia, limited against Alabama, finished with 198 passing yards and one touchdown. He also had one interception and lost a fumble, ending Vanderbilt’s five-game winning streak this season.

Saban emphasized that Alabama controls its destiny toward a potential SEC Championship, sitting at 5-0 and tied with Texas A&M for the top spot. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt stands at 3-2 in the SEC after a recent loss to Texas and would require multiple victories and help from other teams to reach the conference title game.

The Commodores meet Auburn next, needing to secure wins in their remaining games, including matchups against Kentucky and Tennessee. Pavia, who has thrown for 2,063 yards and 18 touchdowns this season, expresses confidence that the teams might cross paths again, possibly in the College Football Playoff.