Just give Diego Pavia the Heisman Trophy already

Vanderbilt went on the road to Knoxville and took down hated rival Tennessee on Saturday afternoon for the program's first victory over the Vols since 2018.

The win gave Vanderbilt its first 10-win season in the school's history. It also cemented quarterback Diego Pavia as one of the four college football players who should earn nods as Heisman Trophy finalists... at least.

Pavia not being a lock to be a Heisman Trophy finalist is already ridiculous, if only because they should just... give him the trophy now. Seriously. Give Pavia the Heisman Trophy right now.

Pavia is the greatest Vanderbilt football player of all time. He has helped elevate Vanderbilt... yes, Vanderbilt... to national contending status. He's helped make the Vandy James Franklin years look quaint. Fernando Mendoza and Julian Sayin are both excellent quarterbacks, and Jeremiyah Love is a sensational running back.

However, if the Heisman four include Mendoza, Sayin, Love and Pavia, Pavia is the winner in a just world.

Like, c'mon. Pavia is the most deserving college football player this season for the Heisman Trophy. It's not close. Look at what this kid has done for Vanderbilt. He's literally the most consequential player in the school's history.

No other Heisman finalist can claim that... not a one.

Pavia hitting the Heisman pose in Knoxville as he led Vanderbilt in a Volunteer rout is legendary stuff for Vandy. Such a moment should be the prelude to him actually hoisting the trophy in New York next month. If there is any justice in this world, Pavia should win it.

If he's not even a finalist, the Heisman Trophy isn't worth it, anyway.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Just give Diego Pavia the Heisman Trophy already