The rise of Gunner Stockton: Following Beck’s transfer, Stockton is expected to start in 2025. He had appearances in the Sugar Bowl and the SEC Championship Game late in the 2024 season while filling in for an injured Beck, which gave him invaluable experience. He has a considerable advantage because of this experience.
“Top Quarterback Battle” (Still): The notion of a “quarterback battle” persists despite Stockton’s experience. Ryan Puglisi, a redshirt freshman, is viewed as the main opponent. Stockton is said to be more knowledgeable about the offence, but Puglisi has excelled with his quickness and arm talent. Carson One important consideration is Beck’s departure and outlook. Due to an injury that ended his 2024 season early and a desire to improve his NFL Draft ranking, Beck, who started as Georgia’s quarterback in 2024 and guided the team to an undefeated regular season and an appearance in the SEC Championship, has transferred to Miami (FL) for the 2025 campaign.
The attention is now on the void left by his departure. Some publications now consider him as one of the best transfer portal players, and he is expected to have a successful 2025 season at Miami. Even the possibility of a future playoff game between Georgia (with Stockton) and Miami (with Beck) is being discussed.
Stockton completed 17 of 34 throws for 309 yards and two touchdowns during the G-Day (spring game) performance, while Puglisi finished with 23 completions on 49 attempts for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Both quarterbacks must keep refining their game management choices and offence comprehension, Kirby Smart has underlined. One common explanation for Georgia’s absence of a transfer portal quarterback acquisition is its faith in Stockton and Puglisi.
The “Unknown Product” Factor for Stockton: There are differing views regarding his ceiling due to his lone career start and tiny sample size of pass attempts. In anticipation of Stockton’s performance as the full-time starter, several observers have ranked Georgia a little lower in their initial rankings. His teammates, however, commend his fortitude and leadership.
The Contrarian “Decline” Prediction:
The Source: In an alleged interview with Athlon Sports, an unnamed SEC coach caused a stir when he predicted Georgia would “decline” in the 2025 campaign.
The Justification: “I don’t think this is the same level of talent we’ve seen in the last three or four years,” the coach said, pointing notably to the scrimmage lines. I believe both lines of scrimmage may experience a drop, at least initially. The ambiguity surrounding Stockton’s elite potential was also emphasised.
Why it’s Trending: Fans and analysts debate and discuss any suggestion of a “decline” for a program that has been so popular to the point of instant attention. It questions the rigorous standards that are now in place. Georgia has established a very high standard, and even a small fall in performance is regarded as “decline.”
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