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Vanderbilt football begins its spring practice Tuesday for one of the most-anticipated seasons in years.
The Commodores finished 2024 at 7-6, their first winning season since 2013, after a victory in the Birmingham Bowl. Vanderbilt also upset Alabama in October for arguably the biggest win in program history.
After that season, the Commodores were ranked eighth in the country in returning production, according to ESPN. That includes quarterback Diego Pavia and tight end Eli Stowers, both All-SEC selections.
Unlike many schools that have done away with spring games, Vanderbilt is holding one April 12, and it will be at FirstBank Stadium for the first time since 2022, giving fans the opportunity to get a glance at the team.
Diego Pavia’s return
After getting a court ruling in his favor, Pavia will return as Vanderbilt’s quarterback in 2025. A bulldog on offense and the emotional leader of the team, Pavia led the Commodores to things that weren’t thought possible, including an upset of the Crimson Tide, who were ranked No. 1 in the country by the Associated Press at the time of the win.
Now, how much of Pavia fans will get to see in spring practice is unknown. Quarterbacks often don’t get tackled live, and Pavia is notable for being much better in games than he is in scrimmages or practices. Still, having him back is big.
Replacing CJ Taylor and De’Rickey Wright at safety
CJ Taylor and De’Rickey Wright were two of Vanderbilt’s top safeties in 2024, but both are out of eligibility and will pursue the NFL.
Now, the Commodores must look for other options. Returners at that position include Dontae Carter and Marlen Sewell, and transfer CJ Heard could get in that mix as well. Carter and Sewell combined for 31 tackles in 2024.
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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/article/know-vanderbilt-football-diego-pavia-184829321.html
Author : The Tennessean
Publish date : 2025-03-03 18:48:00
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