Hokie ClubNASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – Diego Pavia scored on a 4-yard touchdown run in overtime as Vanderbilt upset Virginia Tech 34-27 on Saturday in the season opener for both teams with the Commodores rallying after blowing a 17-point lead.
The graduate transfer from New Mexico State and the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year needed four plays to put the Commodores ahead in overtime. He finished rushing for 104 yards and threw for 190 yards.
Virginia Tech tried switching up quarterbacks in its try in overtime.
Collin Schlee came in on a sweltering day when Kyron Drones threw for 322 yards and two touchdowns. Drones came in for a run and picked up 2 yards. Then Schlee was sacked on third down. His throw to Da’Quan Felton went out of the back of the end zone, starting a big celebration by Vanderbilt.
Pavia nearly won the game in regulation. After Virginia Tech took its only lead at 27-20 with 4:12 left, he capped a 70-yard drive with an 8-yard TD pass to Sedrick Alexander with 1:51 left. He set up Brock Taylor for the potential game-winning 43-yard field goal that missed wide right, sending the game into overtime.
Running back Bhayshul Tuten was the focal point of the Hokies' offense, finding the end zone with both a rushing and receiving touchdown, demonstrating his versatility. In the passing game, Drones connected on several big plays, including a 44-yard pass to tight end Stephen Gosnell and a 62-yard touchdown strike to receiver Ali Jennings, which put the Hokies ahead in the second half.
Defensively, the Hokies brought "Sacksburg" to Nashville. Linebacker Caleb Woodson sacked Pavia for an 11-yard loss, while defensive linemen Antwaun Powell-Ryland and Wilfried Pene combined for another sack, forcing a five-yard loss. Several other players registered TFLs including safety Mose Phillips III, linebacker Jaden Keller, defensive tackle Josh Fuga, safety Jaylen Jones, linebacker Keyshawn Burgos and defensive tackle Kelvin Gilliam Jr. Linebacker Keli Lawson was also a key part of the defense, leading the team with nine total tackles.
The Hokies return to Blacksburg for their home opener against Marshall on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 4:30 p.m. ET. Don't miss the chance to be part of the action at Lane Stadium — secure your tickets through SeatGeek before they’re gone and witness the home opener.