ReliaQuest Bowl 2025: Vanderbilt vs Iowa Prediction, Diego Pavia Status, and Game Preview
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Published on December 31, 2025 | By Marjorie | Qalamkaar Blog
The 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl pits the No. 14 Vanderbilt Commodores (10-2) against the No. 23 Iowa Hawkeyes (8-4) in an exciting SEC vs. Big Ten showdown. This New Year's Eve clash at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, kicks off at noon ET on ESPN and features one of college football's most dynamic players: Vanderbilt quarterback
Diego Pavia.
Is Diego Pavia Playing Today?
Yes, Diego Pavia is playing in the ReliaQuest Bowl. The Heisman Trophy runner-up and dual-threat star confirmed his participation earlier this month, marking what is likely his final college game. Pavia, who transferred from New Mexico State and transformed Vanderbilt football, will lead the Commodores' high-powered offense one last time.
However, Vanderbilt will be without John Mackey Award-winning tight end Eli Stowers, who opted out to prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft.Vanderbilt vs Iowa Prediction and Key MatchupsVanderbilt enters as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 46.5. The Commodores boast a potent offense led by Pavia (3,192 passing yards, 27 TDs, 826 rushing yards, 9 rushing TDs), averaging nearly 40 points per game. Iowa counters with one of the nation's top defenses (No. 7 in scoring defense) and a balanced attack featuring quarterback Mark Gronowski.
Expert Prediction: Expect a close, low-scoring battle. Iowa's defense could contain Pavia without Stowers, but Vanderbilt's motivation for an 11th win (a program record) gives them the edge. Predicted score: Vanderbilt 23, Iowa 20.
Key factors:
Vanderbilt's explosive plays vs. Iowa's stingy pass efficiency defense. Iowa's ground game exploiting Vanderbilt's vulnerabilities. Both teams are nearly full strength, making this one of the most competitive non-Playoff bowls. Where is the ReliaQuest Bowl Played?
The game is at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida – a Hawkeye favorite for its hospitality and exciting atmosphere. Vanderbilt Football Schedule HighlightThis bowl caps a historic season for Vandy football, with wins over ranked foes and a program-best 10 regular-season victories under coach Clark Lea."I've never had a losing season of college football." – Diego Pavia
This quote captures the relentless spirit that turned Vanderbilt into a contender. For more on Vandy football, Hawkeye football, or bowl predictions, stay tuned!Sources: USA Today, Tennessean, CBS Sports, College Football News, ESPN.
Follow for updates on Iowa Vanderbilt, Pavia, and college football bowl season. Share if you're rooting for the Commodores or Hawkeyes! #ReliaQuestBowl #DiegoPavia #VanderbiltFootball #IowaHawkeyes
Vanderbilt vs Iowa Prediction and Key MatchupsVanderbilt enters as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 46.5. The Commodores boast a potent offense led by Pavia (3,192 passing yards, 27 TDs, 826 rushing yards, 9 rushing TDs), averaging nearly 40 points per game. Iowa counters with one of the nation's top defenses (No. 7 in scoring defense) and a balanced attack featuring quarterback Mark Gronowski.
Expert Prediction: Expect a close, low-scoring battle. Iowa's defense could contain Pavia without Stowers, but Vanderbilt's motivation for an 11th win (a program record) gives them the edge. Predicted score: Vanderbilt 23, Iowa 20.
Key factors:
Where is the ReliaQuest Bowl Played?
The game is at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida – a Hawkeye favorite for its hospitality and exciting atmosphere.
Vanderbilt Football Schedule HighlightThis bowl caps a historic season for Vandy football, with wins over ranked foes and a program-best 10 regular-season victories under coach Clark Lea.
"I've never had a losing season of college football." – Diego Pavia
This quote captures the relentless spirit that turned Vanderbilt into a contender.
This quote captures the relentless spirit that turned Vanderbilt into a contender.
For more on Vandy football, Hawkeye football, or bowl predictions, stay tuned!Sources: USA Today, Tennessean, CBS Sports, College Football News, ESPN.
Follow for updates on Iowa Vanderbilt, Pavia, and college football bowl season. Share if you're rooting for the Commodores or Hawkeyes! #ReliaQuestBowl #DiegoPavia #VanderbiltFootball #IowaHawkeyes
Follow for updates on Iowa Vanderbilt, Pavia, and college football bowl season. Share if you're rooting for the Commodores or Hawkeyes! #ReliaQuestBowl #DiegoPavia #VanderbiltFootball #IowaHawkeyes
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