Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia has released an online apology after receiving intense scrutiny for his reaction to losing the race for the Heisman Trophy.
Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza took home the award on Saturday, prompting a shocking reaction from Pavia.
TOP NEWS
The runner-up posted “F ALL THE VOTERS” to his Instagram story shortly after the ceremony, and was seen partying on video with an electronic sign that read “F-CK INDIANA”.
Pavia later released a lengthy apology to social media.
“Being a part of the Heisman ceremony last night as a finalist was such an honor. As a competitor, just like in everything I do I wanted to win,” Pavia wrote. “To be so close to my dream and come up short was painful. I didn’t handle those emotions well at all and did not represent myself the way I wanted to.
He also gave credit to Mendoza and the other finalists before expressing his excitement for the ReliaQuest Bowl against Iowa on Dec 31.
That will be his final collegiate game.
The senior QB threw for 3,192 yards this season and scored 36 total touchdowns, hitting the Heisman pose several times along the way.
While his off-the-field antics have been cause for concern, his on-field play this season was remarkable.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
