With Carson Beck sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a UCL injury, the spotlight now shines on Gunner Stockton, who will step up as Georgia‘s starting quarterback in the upcoming College Football Playoff. This pivotal moment comes as Georgia prepares to face Notre Dame in the CFP quarterfinals on Wednesday at 8:45 p.m. ET, a matchup that promises to be thrilling for fans and players alike.
Gunner Stockton’s Impressive Debut
Stockton had his chance to shine when he replaced Beck in the second half of the SEC Championship game after Beck’s injury on the final play of the first half. Rising to the occasion, Stockton completed 12 of 16 pass attempts for 71 yards, showcasing his potential in a high-pressure situation. Although he threw one interception, he demonstrated poise and confidence in the pocket, ultimately leading the Bulldogs to a nail-biting 22-19 victory in overtime.
Coach Kirby Smart’s Confidence
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has expressed unwavering confidence in Stockton’s abilities. “All the players play harder for him,” Smart remarked. “Do you make the players around you better? That’s what you look for in a quarterback. I think he raises the skill level of everybody around him because of who he is. So that’s my reason for believing he’s a good quarterback.”
The Skills That Set Stockton Apart
What makes Stockton stand out? According to Smart, it all comes down to decision-making and accuracy. “The No. 1 thing a quarterback has to have is decision-making skill,” he noted. “He makes really good decisions. The second thing for a quarterback is accuracy. Not necessarily arm talent, but accuracy. He has accuracy. So decision-making is a skill. Accuracy is a huge skill.”
Smart also highlighted the importance of athletic ability and talent, which Stockton possesses in abundance. “All the intangibles in terms of toughness, character, embody what he was raised on. His dad was a really good football player, played at Georgia Southern. He’s been raised around football. He’s a coach’s son.” This background undoubtedly contributes to his readiness for the challenge ahead.
Building Respect Among Teammates
Stockton’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Earlier this week, Georgia offensive lineman Tate Ratledge shared a story that underscores Stockton’s commitment and work ethic. “The way he steps in, calls the plays, and just goes about his business. I mean, I walked in here the other night at 10 o’clock because I forgot something, and Gunner’s sitting in there watching film,” Ratledge recounted. “Just his buy-in right now is what’s huge, and just the respect he has from everybody.”
The Team’s Support Behind Stockton
Ratledge further emphasized the camaraderie Stockton has fostered within the team. “Gunner’s just a guy you want to block for. I mean, he’s just a great guy. He plays with emotion, brings everybody with him, and now he has the whole team behind him, ready to roll.” This kind of support is crucial as Stockton prepares for one of the biggest games of his young career.
Looking Ahead: The Challenge Against Notre Dame
As the Bulldogs gear up to face Notre Dame, all eyes will be on Gunner Stockton. The pressure is on, but he seems ready to embrace the challenge. With the confidence of his coach and the respect of his teammates, Stockton has the opportunity to prove himself on one of college football’s biggest stages.
The upcoming game is not just about individual performance; it’s about teamwork, resilience, and the spirit of college football. Fans can expect an electrifying matchup as Stockton leads Georgia into battle, aiming to secure a victory and advance further in the playoffs. Will he rise to the occasion and deliver a performance that cements his place in Georgia football history? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the excitement is palpable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
