"Games like this change your life": Overnight star Diego Pavia talks about the expected impact of the Alabama takedown

Diego Pavia led Vanderbilt to a historic victory over Alabama in Nashville on Saturday. The quarterback had a brilliant performance for the Commodores as they secured a 40-35 victory over the Crimson Tide, their first win over the team in four decades.

Pavia's standout performance and historic victory could have a significant impact on his career. Playing a pivotal role in leading the Commodores to one of the biggest upsets in recent history, the quarterback believes things are about to change.

“Games like this change your life, you know what I mean?" Pavia said. "It's all about hype nowadays, and I don't like it like that, but it's a reality of NIL and all that stuff. "But just staying grounded, stay where my feet are and every single day, tomorrow we got to work on Kentucky."

Diego Pavia disclosed Johnson Manziel's inspiration

Johnny Manziel led Texas A&M to an upset against No. 1 Alabama as a freshman in 2012. The Aggies, who had just transitioned from the Big 12 to the SEC then, defeated the Crimson Tide 29-24, inspired by an outstanding performance from Manziel.

Diego Pavia made it known after the game on Saturday that Manziel was a source of motivation for him. He was able to achieve the same feat in the game on Saturday, creating significant problems for the Alabama defense.

“Johnny Football, in his video he said he’s nothing to play with,” Pavia said. “I think the same way about myself. Just every time I step on the field, I feel like I’m the best player on the field. Every single time, that I just gotta keep showing up. It’s God’s timing.”

Diego Pavia believes Vanderbilt wanted it more

Diego Pavia feels his team secured a win on Saturday because they were more determined. Following the thrilling 40-35 victory, Vanderbilt fans stormed the field in celebration, bringing down the goalposts in an unforgettable moment that will go down in NCAA history.

“I feel like just the outside is shocked but internally, we knew what we could do,” Pavia said. “Vanderbilt football can only beat Vanderbilt football and that's the reality of it. But Alabama is a great team and we just played better. That's how the SEC is, it's any given Saturday.”

Pavia threw 252 yards with two touchdowns and 56 rushing yards. His dual-threat capabilities kept the Crimson Tide defense on their heels throughout the game.