Diego Pavia Names One Vanderbilt Player To Watch Out for Without Hesitation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 2:48 PM ET

The 2024 college football season was a wild ride for the Vanderbilt Commodores and quarterback Diego Pavia. Not only did the SEC program take down Alabama, which was ranked No. 1 in the country, but Vandy finished the year with a winning record and a bowl win for the first time since 2013.

One good season is a nice accomplishment, but Pavia and the rest of the Commodores are looking to build upon last year's success.

Pavia recently appeared on "Bussin' With The Boys," a popular podcast hosted by former NFL players Will Compton and Taylor Lewan, where he was asked to name one player to watch. Pavia made the case for an incoming transfer from New Mexico State: Makhilyn Young.

“We got this new running back from New Mexico State, MK. He wears No. 22. He's like that. You guys will see it Saturday ... I played with him (at New Mexico State) when he was a freshman ... Everyone knew, like that kid, he's different."

Young has yet to earn feature back playing time, even during his two seasons at New Mexico State. In 2023, he rushed for 191 yards and two touchdowns on 28 carries. Pavia was a former teammate of Young's when both were on the Aggies.

In 2024, Pavia led Vanderbilt with 800 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. The Commodores return their next two leading rushers this year with Sedrick Alexander and AJ Newberry.

Young joined Vanderbilt as part of its 2024 transfer class. During his senior year of high school, Young rushed for 2,132 yards and 36 touchdowns while at Midland Legacy.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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