Join Eli Stowers and Diego Pavia on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they delve into their journeys as college quarterbacks. Eli shares insights on the Music City Maverick nickname and preparation for the Alcorn State game, while Diego reflects on his growth from New Mexico State and the influence of Coach Beck on his QB play. The episode explores their experiences with media attention, crowd enthusiasm, and the culture shift under new coaching. They discuss overcoming underdog status, building a winning culture, and balancing academics with football. Diego talks about his transition from junior college to SEC success, social media impact, and interactions with Deion Sanders.
(0:00) Introduction and welcoming guests
(0:06) Music City Maverick nickname and Alcorn State game prep
(0:43) Reflections on previous game, crowd enthusiasm, and postgame traditions
(2:22) Cowboy hat and sunglasses story with media attention post-win
(4:05) AP top 25 poll votes and playing at Vanderbilt
(8:18) Winning with large margins and culture shift under new coaching
(10:05) Coach K's experience and Diego's growth from New Mexico State
(12:21) Coach Beck's influence on QB play and Diego's conditioning improvements
(16:19) Improvised plays and key players' game impact
(18:48) Reality vs. hype in player performances and putting opponents away early
(22:11) Preparing for upcoming games and SEC gauntlet
(25:20) Overcoming underdog status and team transformation
(27:08) Dynamic coaching duo: coach Lee and coach Keel
(29:36) Building a winning culture and academic challenges
(33:15) Career aspirations in football and beyond
(34:19) Applying finance lessons and the importance of academics
(37:32) The Abilene paradox and lessons from college
(44:46) Energy and leadership on game day, faith, and composure
(48:15) Saying goodbye to Eli, welcoming Fluff, and their friendship
(50:04) Diego's journey from junior college to SEC success
(57:03) Enjoying SEC football perks and favorite moments
(58:14) Social media impact and proving doubters wrong
(1:03:04) Interaction with Deion Sanders and Coach Kill's impact
(1:09:03) Upcoming games, fan expectations, and playing spoiler
(1:13:15) Closing remarks and future plans