For the past two seasons, the Georgia Bulldogs have relied heavily on the leadership of senior quarterback Carson Beck. Under his guidance, the team has achieved an impressive 24 wins, including a memorable victory in the Orange Bowl last season. However, as the Bulldogs gear up for the College Football Playoff quarterfinals against Notre Dame, they face a significant challenge: Beck is sidelined due to an elbow injury sustained during the SEC Championship game, requiring season-ending surgery to repair his UCL.
Gunner Stockton steps up
In the wake of Beck’s injury, the Bulldogs are turning to redshirt sophomore Gunner Stockton. This will be Stockton’s first career start, a moment he has been preparing for throughout his time at Georgia. While he has primarily played in relief during blowout games, he did step in for an injured Beck during the SEC Championship, completing 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards and throwing one interception against Texas. Now, the spotlight is on Stockton as he prepares to lead the Bulldogs in a high-stakes playoff game.
Getting to know Gunner Stockton
As Stockton gears up for this pivotal moment in his career, it’s worth taking a closer look at his background. Growing up in Tiger, Georgia, a quaint town with a population of just 574, Stockton’s roots are deeply embedded in the rural South. Located 16 miles south of the Tennessee border, Tiger is the kind of place where community and tradition matter. Beyond football, Stockton had a unique upbringing, taking care of 14 cows during his high school years, showcasing his work ethic and commitment.
High school success
Stockton attended Rabun County High School, where he was the starting quarterback for all four years. His tenure was nothing short of spectacular, leading his team to the state quarterfinals multiple times while racking up impressive statistics. He was not just a football star; Stockton also excelled in baseball, earning All-America honors twice in three years. His dual-sport success is a testament to his athletic prowess, but it was his football talent that ultimately led him to focus on the gridiron.
Impressive high school stats
During his high school career, Stockton set a state record for the most career passing touchdowns, finishing with an astounding 177. His statistics tell a story of dominance:
| Year | Games | Passing Yards | Passing Touchdowns | Interceptions | Rushing Yards | Rushing Touchdowns |
| 2018 | 13 | 2,917 | 34 | 6 | 709 | 17 |
| 2019 | 13 | 3,473 | 43 | 6 | 1,126 | 19 |
| 2020 | 14 | 3,128 | 45 | 4 | 1,581 | 26 |
| 2021 | 13 | 4,134 | 55 | 1 | 956 | 15 |
Stockton’s ability to not only pass for significant yardage but also rush for a remarkable 4,372 yards and 77 touchdowns showcases his dual-threat capability. Originally committed to South Carolina, he ultimately chose Georgia, where he was ranked as the No. 7 quarterback in the 2022 class.
College career and preparation
In his collegiate journey, Stockton has spent time learning behind established quarterbacks like Stetson Bennett and Carson Beck. His patience and dedication have prepared him for this moment. As he steps onto the field for his first start, he has the chance to prove himself as Georgia’s quarterback of the future.
Here’s a look at his college stats so far:
| Year | Games | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions | Rushing Yards | Rushing Touchdowns |
| 2023 | 4 | 148 | 2 | 1 | 63 | 0 |
| 2024 | 4 | 206 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 0 |
The road ahead
As Gunner Stockton prepares for this critical playoff matchup, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Can he rise to the occasion and lead the Bulldogs to victory? With a strong high school background and the support of his teammates, there’s no telling what he might achieve on the national stage. The eyes of the college football world will be watching closely as he takes the reins of Georgia’s offense, hoping to carve out his own legacy in the process.
