NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 13: Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Diego Pavia of the Vanderbilt Commodores  talks during a press conference before the 2025 Heisman Trophy Presentation at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on December 13, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)

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Cole Sullivan

By Cole Sullivan

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The Heisman Trophy is the most prestigious award in college football, and on Saturday night it was announced that Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza won the honor with 643 first-place votes and 2,362 total points.

Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia finished second, receiving 189 first-place votes and 1,345 total points. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin rounded out the finalists, each earning fewer than 50 first-place votes.

However, Pavia drew attention for the wrong reasons following the ceremony after posting an Instagram story that read, “F— all the voters. But… family for life.”

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Pavia’s comments were met with intense backlash from college football fans, many of whom felt the remarks were not a good look for the soon-to-be NFL prospect.

"His pure arrogance and tacky behavior didn’t do him any favors. Someone needs to teach him a little humility soon. Saban would have a heart to heart with him, if he played for him for sure," a fan said.

Someone else added, "Bro got the maturity and poise of a sophomore in high school."

Another person wrote, "Look at how he acts and who he surrounds himself with. Serious Johnny Manziel vibes. I would not want my team drafting this guy."

"Dang. Dude needs to think twice before posting," one more fan commented.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 13: Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Diego Pavia of the Vanderbilt Commodores  talks during a press conference before the 2025 Heisman Trophy Presentation at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on December 13, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)

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Pavia had a remarkable season for the Commodores and nearly led them to the College Football Playoff, but drawing negative attention to yourself—especially as you prepare to wrap up your collegiate career and make the jump to the NFL—is rarely a good look for any prospect.

This season, the former New Mexico State transfer threw for 3,192 yards, 27 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He also added 152 carries for 826 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground.

More news: Jeremiyah Love Publicly Endorses Marcus Freeman Amid NFL Coaching Rumors

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