Tensions Flare at Tennessee-Vanderbilt Game as Family of Vanderbilt QB Arrested
What was supposed to be a hard-fought SEC rivalry game between Tennessee and Vanderbilt took a turn off the field when family members of Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia were arrested in the stands at Neyland Stadium. The focus quickly shifted from the gridiron to an unfolding incident in the crowd - one that now raises serious questions about fan behavior, stadium enforcement, and how off-field distractions can ripple through a college football program.
According to multiple reports, Pavia’s father and brother were taken into custody during the game following repeated warnings from stadium staff. The issue reportedly began when they were told not to sit or lean over the front row seats - a common request in stadiums to ensure safety and sightlines. But instead of complying, the situation escalated.
The father allegedly became verbally aggressive with staff and nearby fans, refusing to follow directions. Meanwhile, Diego’s brother, identified as Javier Pavia, was reportedly intoxicated and uncooperative.
Witnesses say he was waving a large flag that obstructed the view for other fans. When asked to lower it, he refused - prompting security to intervene.
That’s when things got worse.
As officers attempted to detain Javier for public intoxication, the father - or possibly other family members - allegedly interfered with the arrest. The confrontation led to at least two family members being taken into custody during the game.
This isn't the first time the Pavia family has made headlines for the wrong reasons. Earlier in the year, both Javier and another brother, Roel, were arrested at a different game.
That incident involved similar charges: public intoxication and resisting arrest. Roel also faced a more serious accusation - assaulting a police officer.
To be clear, Diego Pavia himself has not been implicated in any of these incidents. The Vanderbilt quarterback remained focused on the field, and there are no reports suggesting he was involved in any way with the events in the stands.
Still, the repeated nature of these incidents is likely to raise concerns within the program and among university officials. Stadium security and university administrators may now need to evaluate whether to limit or revoke access for certain individuals if disruptive behavior continues. While most programs try to provide family members with VIP access and support, that access can be put at risk when it becomes a liability.
As of now, Javier Pavia has been released on his own recognizance following the arrest for public intoxication. The legal process will play out, but the broader implications are already being felt. Distractions like this can weigh on a team, especially when they involve the family of a starting quarterback.
For Vanderbilt, it’s another layer of adversity in a season that’s already had its share of challenges. And for Diego Pavia, it’s a reminder that while he may be the one under center, the spotlight often stretches far beyond the field.