From SEC Doormat to Top-10 Darling: Vanderbilt Cracks AP Poll for First Time Since 1947

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NASHVILLE, TN — The seismic shifts that rocked the AP Top 25 this weekend created a historical milestone that has the entire college football world buzzing. Following a decisive 31-24 victory over then-No. 10 LSU, the Vanderbilt Commodores (6-1) have earned a spot in the AP Top 10 for the first time since 1947.

This sudden rise of Vanderbilt—a program picked to finish 13th in the SEC this year—is a testament to the dramatic parity in the sport and the transformative work of coach Clark Lea. The Commodores, whose last Top 10 ranking occurred in a poll released the same year Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier and Jackie Robinson debuted in MLB, have completed an improbable ascent fueled by a Heisman dark horse and two key victories over ranked SEC opponents.

The Engine: Quarterback Diego Pavia

The centerpiece of this historical run is quarterback Diego Pavia. The high-energy signal-caller continued his streak of offensive brilliance, accounting for three touchdowns (two rushing, one passing) in the victory over LSU. Pavia’s performance—which included 86 rushing yards—was enough to secure Vanderbilt’s first win over the Tigers since 1990 and push the team to its best start since 1950.

Pavia’s success has been explosive and consistent. He now leads the SEC in touchdown passes and is among the nation’s best in total offense, cementing his place in the mid-season Heisman conversation.

Snapping the Streaks

Vanderbilt’s 2025 season has become a celebration of broken curses:

LSU Victory: The win snapped a 10-game losing streak to LSU and marked the first time the two programs had met as ranked teams since 1947.
Alabama Revenge: Just two weeks prior, the Commodores delivered a fierce performance in a loss at Alabama, a game preceded by the history of Vanderbilt’s stunning 2024 upset of the then-No. 1 Crimson Tide.
Program Consistency: The team is off to its best start since 1950 and has now been ranked for six straight weeks, the longest stretch in program history.

What’s Next for the New Top-10 Team

The Commodores’ surprising success has earned them an immediate reward: the spotlight. ESPN’s College GameDay will descend upon FirstBank Stadium this Saturday for Vanderbilt’s matchup against No. 15 Missouri. The contest will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, providing a monumental opportunity for Vanderbilt to validate its ranking on the biggest stage.

For a program that has been synonymous with struggle for generations, the No. 10 ranking is more than just a number—it’s a symbol of hope and a stunning reminder that in college football, history is always waiting to be rewritten.