No. 17 Vanderbilt stunned No. 10 LSU with a 31-24 upset victory in Week 8 of college football, driven by quarterback Diego Pavia’s standout performance and capped by a lighthearted social media troll that mocked LSU’s traditional “Geaux” slogan. This win snapped a 10-game losing streak against the Tigers and highlighted Vanderbilt’s dramatic rise as a playoff contender.
The Commodores seized control early, dominating time of possession and the line of scrimmage to build a lead they never relinquished. Vanderbilt’s offense consistently moved the chains, while the defense forced key stops, including holding LSU to field goals on multiple red-zone opportunities. The victory was sealed with a balanced attack that showcased the team’s improved discipline and execution under head coach Clark Lea.
Quarterback Diego Pavia emerged as the game’s hero, amassing 246 total yards and accounting for three touchdowns, two of which came on the ground. His ability to extend plays under pressure and deliver in critical moments was evident, and he even struck a Heisman pose after one score, reigniting discussions about his candidacy for the prestigious award. Pavia’s performance underscored his role in transforming Vanderbilt from a perennial underdog into a formidable SEC force.
This triumph marks Vanderbilt’s first season with multiple wins over AP top-15 opponents, following an earlier victory over No. 11 South Carolina. The Commodores improved to 6-1, their best start in 75 years, and now find themselves in the thick of the College Football Playoff conversation. The team’s success reflects a cultural shift, with increased confidence and strategic prowess that has surprised many across the college football landscape.
Conversely, LSU’s loss exposed significant flaws, particularly on offense, where the Tigers averaged 6.6 yards per play but struggled to sustain drives, settling for four field goal attempts. Defensively, despite improvements under coordinator Blake Baker, LSU allowed 239 rushing yards and had no answer for Pavia’s dual-threat capabilities. The defeat intensifies scrutiny on coach Brian Kelly, whose tenure has failed to meet expectations amid preseason hype.
Post-game, Vanderbilt added insult to injury with a playful social media post using “Geaux Dores,” a clever twist on LSU’s “Geaux Tigers” rallying cry. This troll was part of a broader Week 8 trend where teams engaged in good-natured ribbing, but it gained attention due to the upset’s magnitude. The gesture emphasized the Commodores’ newfound swagger and the evolving rivalries within the SEC.
The implications of this game extend beyond the scoreboard, challenging traditional power structures in the SEC and reshaping the playoff picture. Vanderbilt’s ascent signals a potential shift in conference dynamics, while LSU must address its inconsistencies to avoid further decline. As the season progresses, both teams face critical matchups that will test their resilience and define their legacies in a highly competitive environment.