TL;DR
- Vanderbilt defeated Tennessee 45-24, achieving their first 10-win season and highest points against Volunteers since 1923.
- Diego Pavia threw for 268 yards and rushed for 165 yards and a touchdown, shifting momentum for Vanderbilt.
- Sedrick Alexander added 115 rushing yards and three touchdowns, contributing to Vanderbilt's 582 total yards.
- Pavia's dual-threat performance is drawing national attention and early Heisman Trophy consideration.
Vanderbilt secured a significant victory against a rival on Saturday, shattering several Tennessee records with a 45-24 triumph. This achievement marked the program's inaugural 10-win season and resulted in their highest point total against the Volunteers since 1923, a span of 102 years that now stands as a unique achievement in the school's annals.
Commodores signal-caller Diego Pavia passed for 268 yards and one score, in addition to 165 yards on the ground and a 24-yard touchdown run in the third quarter that shifted the momentum in Vandy's favor. Running back Sedrick Alexander contributed 115 rushing yards and three touchdowns, enabling Vanderbilt to accumulate 582 total yards and end Tennessee’s six-game winning streak in their matchups.
Vanderbilt's standout player is now gaining national attention. Pavia's impressive two-way play has him in early Heisman Trophy conversations, as the experienced senior continues to lead a strong rushing attack and a conviction that their postseason resume warrants committee review.
Tennessee (8-4, 4-4, No. 19 CFP) saw QB Joey Aguilar throw for 299 yards and one touchdown, with RB DeSean Bishop adding 97 rushing yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Both squads are anticipating the postseason's unfolding. Tennessee had been predicted to be in Vanderbilt's present position. A significant shift has occurred in SEC competition this year.
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