The SEC doesn’t handle quarterback controversies quietly, and for the Georgia Bulldogs, the standard is national championships—nothing less. That’s why Carson Beck’s decision to transfer to Miami sent shockwaves through the program, leaving Georgia without a proven leader under center for the 2025 season. Beck was supposed to be the next great Georgia quarterback, following in the footsteps of Stetson Bennett. Instead, the Bulldogs now face an uncertain future at the position.
Gunner Stockton, a 6’1″ sophomore, had a brief chance to prove himself late in the season. He stepped in for an injured Beck during the SEC Championship against Texas and followed that with a gritty performance in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame. However, while he managed 305 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception, his play didn’t exactly scream “future star.”
While serviceable, Stockton didn’t appear to elevate the offense in the way Georgia fans are used to. His mobility added a different dynamic, but questions remain about his arm talent. According to a Bulldogs insider, Stockton played well against a strong Notre Dame defense, but that performance alone doesn’t guarantee he’s the long-term answer for Georgia.
One major issue is that Stockton is not Stetson Bennett. While Bennett was a precise passer, Stockton is more of a power runner. His playing style adds an interesting element, but it doesn’t necessarily fit the offensive mold that has led Georgia to national success.
Beyond Stockton, Georgia’s quarterback depth chart doesn’t inspire much confidence. The remaining scholarship quarterbacks—Ryan Puglisi, Hezekiah Millender, and Ryan Montgomery—are either too inexperienced or unproven to be considered serious competition. This uncertainty has led to speculation that Georgia could look to the transfer portal to secure a more established quarterback.
Concerns about Stockton’s passing ability linger. A former four-star recruit and the No. 2 dual-threat quarterback in his class, Stockton has yet to fully prove himself at the college level. ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum has expressed skepticism, noting that while Georgia fans seem optimistic about Stockton, he wasn’t particularly impressed with his performance. Finebaum described Stockton as “limited” and questioned whether he has what it takes to lead Georgia back to championship contention.
Stockton’s limited experience—just five games last season—makes it difficult to predict his potential. His stats (440 passing yards, one touchdown, and a 70.3% completion rate) show promise, but whether he can lead Georgia to another national title remains uncertain. To make matters more complicated, four-star quarterback Jaden Rashada has entered the transfer portal, further depleting Georgia’s quarterback depth.
The question now is whether Stockton can develop into the elite quarterback Georgia needs or if the program will have to look elsewhere. With uncertainty surrounding the position, the Bulldogs may find themselves at a crossroads heading into the 2025 season.