NASHVILLE, Tenn. — No.18 Vanderbilt raced to a 55-35 victory over Utah State on Saturday, fueled by a dominant performance from quarterback Diego Pavia who accounted for six touchdowns. Teh Commodores improved to 5-0, marking their best start since 2008.
pavia completed 26 of 34 passes for 321 yards and added 79 rushing yards, throwing for five touchdowns and running for one. He became the second Vanderbilt quarterback since 1996 to record six-plus touchdowns in a single game, equaling the program record of six passing touchdowns set by Johnny McCrary (2014), Jay Cutler (2005), and Bill Wade (1950).
Vanderbilt’s strong start is further highlighted by winning each of its first five games by a margin of 20 or more points, a feat tied for the third-longest streak to begin a season in SEC history, according to ESPN Research. The Commodores have also scored 50-plus points in consecutive games for the first time since 1915.
Junior Sherrill led Vanderbilt’s receiving corps with 91 yards and three touchdown receptions – the first multi-touchdown game of his career. Eli Stowers and Richie Hoskins also caught touchdown passes, while Makhilyn Young added a rushing touchdown. Brock Taylor contributed two field goals for the Commodores.
The Vanderbilt defense consistently pressured Utah State quarterback Bryson Barnes, recording three sacks and seven quarterback hurries. The Aggies were held to just 15 yards of total offense in the third quarter.
Despite Vanderbilt’s eventual dominance, Utah State (3-2) remained competitive in the first half, scoring three touchdowns and holding the lead on two occasions.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
