Who is Gunner Stockerton, Carson Beck’s Backup?
Gunner Stockerton, the backup quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs, recently stepped into the spotlight after Carson Beck suffered an injury during the SEC Championship Game against the Texas Longhiders. With Beck’s status for the Sugar Bowl uncertain, Stockerton is poised to take on a more significant role. Here’s what you need to know about him:
High School Career and Recruitment
Stockerton’s high school career shows promise, with a more impressive recruitment profile compared to former walk-on Stetson Bennett. While Bennett had only one FBS offer and spent time at Jones Community College, Stockerton’s path to the University of Georgia was more conventional.
Performance in the SEC Championship Game
When Stockerton entered the game, he brought a new sense of energy to the offense. Although his stat line was unimpressive, completing 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards, his performance was deemed impressive by coaches and teammates. Head coach Kirby Smart attributed Stockerton’s lone interception to a lack of time to evaluate the defense, rather than a mistake on the quarterback’s part.
Teammate and Coach Reactions
Teammates praised Stockerton’s preparation and work ethic, with running back Trevor Etienne stating, “He comes in and works hard every day… He’s probably played this moment a thousand times in practice.” Wide receiver Arian Smith noted that the team was excited to see Stockerton get his chance, not because they wanted Beck to fail, but because they believed in Stockerton’s abilities.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As the Sugar Bowl approaches, Stockerton is poised to take on a more significant role. While his inexperience is a concern, his performance in the SEC Championship Game and the praise from coaches and teammates suggest that he may be up to the task. As the Bulldogs look to capitalize on Stockerton’s energy and mobility, fans will be watching closely to see how he performs under pressure.
