The brother of Vanderbilt University quarterback Diego Pavia found himself in legal trouble during a highly anticipated football game against Tennessee. Antonio Pavia, 25, was arrested and charged with public intoxication while attending the matchup between the two rival teams.
Game Day Arrest Details
The incident occurred on Saturday night during the Vanderbilt versus Tennessee football game at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville. According to official reports, Antonio Pavia was taken into custody by Vanderbilt University police and formally charged with public intoxication.
Court documents revealed that the arrest took place around 9:30 PM local time. The 25-year-old was processed at the scene and later released after posting bond. The timing of the arrest coincided with the fourth quarter of the game, which Tennessee ultimately won 48-24.
Family Connection to Vanderbilt Football
Antonio Pavia is the older brother of Diego Pavia, who transferred to Vanderbilt from New Mexico State during the offseason. Diego Pavia had been competing for the starting quarterback position with the Commodores under first-year head coach Clark Lea.
The Pavia brothers hail from Albuquerque, New Mexico, where they both attended Valley High School. Diego gained recognition as a standout player at New Mexico State before making the move to Vanderbilt, bringing increased attention to the Pavia family.
During the game against Tennessee, Diego Pavia saw limited playing time, appearing briefly in the fourth quarter. He completed his only pass attempt for 12 yards in what proved to be his Vanderbilt debut.
Legal Consequences and Team Response
The public intoxication charge carries potential legal consequences for Antonio Pavia, though specific details about the court proceedings remained unclear at the time of reporting. Such charges typically involve fines and possible mandatory alcohol education programs.
Vanderbilt University officials and the athletic department have not released an official statement regarding the incident. The arrest occurred while Antonio was attending the game as a spectator, not as part of the team's official party or personnel.
This incident marks another challenge for the Vanderbilt football program, which has struggled competitively in recent seasons. The team's 48-24 loss to Tennessee extended their losing streak against SEC opponents, adding to the disappointing start of their 2023 campaign.
The situation also highlights the increased scrutiny and pressure faced by family members of college athletes, particularly those in high-profile positions like starting quarterbacks at Power Five conference programs.
