Diego Pavia thinks the College Football Playoff is getting closer to the right format. But Vanderbilt’s quarterback believes it needs more work.
The Heisman Trophy finalist appeared on ESPN’s Get Up Friday to discuss the current system. Pavia led the Commodores to a 10-2 regular season, the best in program history.
He’s pushing for expansion beyond the current 12-team format.
“I would move it to a 16-team playoff and then put play-in games. You’d have those four teams on the bubble and do play-in games like how the NBA does it. That way you’re getting the best teams in the College Football Playoff.”
Vanderbilt finished No. 14 in the final CFP rankings. They missed the playoff despite their historic season.
Vandy QB Diego Pavia joins First Take to talk about being a Heisman Finalist
“People thought [I] was a fluke last year. … That was one of my goals, to be the best player in the SEC, but obviously I want to win the Heisman.” pic.twitter.com/StmNuu2hZg
— First Take (@FirstTake) December 12, 2025
Pavia criticized the quality of first-round matchups. He said blowouts don’t help anyone.
“They want to see those close games come down to the last drive. It’s better for the NFL to see, ‘Is this guy clutch?’ or ‘Can he play at this level?'”
The quarterback suggested Vanderbilt’s recent history hurt their playoff chances. From 2014 to 2023, the Commodores went 36-83.
That reputation still follows the program, according to Pavia.
“For sure. If we had another logo, we’re in the College Football Playoff, no question.”
Pavia set a program record with 3,192 passing yards this season. He accounted for 36 total touchdowns.
He became the first Vanderbilt quarterback named a Heisman finalist.
The Commodores will face No. 21 Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl. A win would give Vanderbilt its first 11-win season in school history.
