Vanderbilt Achieves Best Start in 75 Years with Win Over LSU

Diego Pavia led the No. 17 Vanderbilt Commodores to a historic victory over No. 10 LSU on October 21, 2023, winning 31-24 and marking the program’s best start in 75 years. With this win, Vanderbilt improved to 6-1, matching its 1950 record of six wins in the first seven games. This victory also ended a 10-game losing streak against LSU, a significant achievement for the Commodores.

Vanderbilt’s performance showcased Pavia’s dual-threat capabilities. He threw for 160 yards and one touchdown while rushing for 86 yards and two additional scores. Coach Clark Lea expressed the importance of the win, stating, “Ultimately we have a lot of season left, and we’re going to celebrate this win. I think we’ve earned the right to celebrate it. But this game won’t define our season. There’s a lot more for this team to accomplish.”

Commodores Break Through Against Tigers

The Commodores’ victory was particularly notable, as this was only the fourth meeting since 1947 with both teams ranked in the Associated Press poll. The game featured intense moments, with LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier throwing for 225 yards and two touchdowns, including a 62-yard pass to Zavion Thomas. Despite some impressive plays, LSU struggled to convert opportunities into touchdowns, settling for four field goals.

The Commodores’ offense proved too potent for LSU’s highly regarded defense, which had been allowing an average of just 11.8 points per game. Vanderbilt, ranked seventh nationally in scoring with an average of 43.2 points per game, scored the most points against LSU this season. The Commodores managed to punt only twice, both in the fourth quarter, reflecting their offensive efficiency.

LSU coach Brian Kelly noted the missed opportunities that cost his team. “We had opportunities, we didn’t cash in on them,” he remarked after the game. The Tigers’ best chance to regain momentum came after Vanderbilt’s first punt in the fourth quarter, but they failed to capitalize following a sack from Zaylin Wood.

Pavia Shines in Spotlight

Pavia’s standout performance included a highlight-reel moment when he celebrated his third touchdown with a Heisman pose, showcasing his confidence and talent on the field. Coach Lea praised Pavia’s impact, saying, “You can’t watch him play and not realize what a game changer he is. There are a lot of good players. There’s only a handful to me that can take a game over, and he’s one of those.”

The victory not only solidifies Vanderbilt’s position in the rankings but also ensures their bowl eligibility, a goal that has historically been significant for the program. As the team prepares for its next challenge, Lea emphasized that their focus remains on the upcoming games.

Vanderbilt will look to build on this momentum when they host No. 16 Missouri on October 25, while LSU faces No. 4 Texas A&M on the same day.

The excitement in Nashville was palpable as Vanderbilt fans celebrated the historic win, with the team playing “Callin’ Baton Rouge” as they protected both goalposts. The atmosphere reflected a significant turning point for the Commodores, who are now poised for further success this season.