While Vanderbilt waits for Diego Pavia’s big Heisman moment, another reason to celebrate just hit Nashville. Senior tight end Eli Stowers won the John Mackey Award, which honors the nation’s best tight end each year. The moment was incredibly emotional, not because of his win, but because of who announced his win and how.

During a presentation in Vanderbilt’s audio room, Stowers’ parents, Donald and Tina, appeared on screen suddenly. Stowers’ expression was a bit surprised already, and then, his parents surprised him with the news in front of the entire Vanderbilt football team.

“Congratulations,” they said. “You just won the John Mackey Award.”

The entire room screamed and pounced on Stowers with joy. After soaking it all in, Stowers then stepped up to the podium and shared a few heart

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