Simpson Leads Alabama Past Vanderbilt, Manziel Wears Pavia Jersey

Johnny Manziel returned to Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday, standing on the Vanderbilt sideline in a Diego Pavia jersey as No. 10 Alabama defeated No. 16 Vanderbilt 30-14 in Tuscaloosa. The game produced a breakout performance from Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson and costly mistakes from Vanderbilt’s Pavia, while Manziel’s presence and actions added an off-field subplot to a physical Southeastern Conference matchup.

Simpson completed 23 of 31 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns, combining accurate pocket passing with improvisational scrambling that kept drives alive. Alabama totaled 486 yards of offense and used a sustained fourth-quarter possession to sap Vanderbilt’s momentum before extending the lead. Teammates praised Simpson’s play; offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor called it “Heisman level,” reflecting growing confidence in the sophomore who waited three seasons for a starting opportunity.

Vanderbilt’s offense, led by Pavia, started with promise but faltered as the game progressed. Pavia finished with 198 passing yards and a touchdown, but committed three turnovers, including a fumble at the Alabama 8 in the first half and a red-zone interception late in the fourth...