🐾 Dawgs’ New Alpha: Gunner Stockton Named Georgia’s Starting Quarterback for 2025…read more…
Athens, GA — July 7, 2025
In a move many Georgia fans hoped for — and rivals feared — Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs have officially named Gunner Stockton as the starting quarterback for the 2025 college football season. The announcement comes following the offseason exit of former starter Carson Beck, who declared for the NFL Draft before suffering a season-ending injury during pre-draft training in early spring.
Now, it’s Stockton’s show — and the next chapter of Georgia football is set to be written by one of the most highly touted dual-threat quarterbacks in the program’s history.
🎓 From Blue-Chip to Bulldog Leader
Gunner Stockton is no stranger to hype. A former four-star recruit out of Rabun County High School (Georgia), he shattered state records in both passing yards and touchdowns before committing to the Bulldogs. Known for his athleticism, arm strength, and football IQ, Stockton has spent the past few seasons patiently developing behind Stetson Bennett, then Carson Beck.
His time has come.
Stockton’s promotion isn’t just about replacing Beck — it’s about continuing Georgia’s quarterback legacy while adding a new dynamic to the offense. At 6’1”, 220 pounds, with impressive scrambling ability, Stockton brings an element that opposing SEC defenses will have to game-plan for week in and week out.
🗣️ Kirby Smart Weighs In
At the official press conference on July 7, head coach Kirby Smart confirmed Stockton’s promotion:
“Gunner has earned this. He’s been a leader in the locker room, a film junkie off the field, and a force in every rep he’s taken. He understands the pressure and the privilege of leading this program, and we’re excited to see where he takes us.”
Smart also emphasized Stockton’s competitive edge and work ethic — two traits that made him the clear choice over younger backups in spring camp.
🔍 Why Gunner? Why Now?
There were questions heading into the offseason about whether Georgia might dip into the transfer portal for a veteran QB after Beck’s departure. But those whispers died quickly as Stockton dominated spring practices and earned rave reviews from teammates and coaches alike.
Here’s what made Stockton the clear choice:
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Maturity: After three years in the system, Stockton knows the playbook as well as the coaching staff.
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Mobility: He can create plays with his legs — something Beck and Bennett did sparingly.
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Leadership: Teammates repeatedly noted his vocal presence and cool demeanor under pressure.
🔥 A Revamped Offense to Lead
Stockton won’t be alone in this new chapter. Georgia has made major moves to give him the tools he needs to thrive:
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Zachariah Branch (transfer from USC): A dynamic deep-threat WR with elite speed.
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Noah Thomas (Texas A&M): A big-body target who excels in the red zone.
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London Humphreys & Dillon Bell: Returning veterans with breakout potential.
Add to that an offensive line ranked top 5 nationally, and Stockton is set up for success. OC Mike Bobo returns to coordinate the attack, likely crafting an RPO-heavy scheme to take advantage of Stockton’s dual-threat ability.
🗓 Key Games to Watch
Georgia’s 2025 schedule offers immediate challenges — and opportunities — for Gunner Stockton to prove himself under the brightest lights:
| Date | Matchup | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 30 | vs Marshall | Athens, GA |
| Sept 13 | @ Tennessee | Knoxville, TN |
| Sept 27 | vs Alabama | Athens, GA |
| Nov 1 | vs Florida | Jacksonville, FL |
| Nov 29 | vs Georgia Tech | Athens, GA |
The showdown vs Alabama on Sept 27 could be a defining moment in both the SEC and national playoff picture — and for Stockton’s legacy as a Bulldog.
📈 Expectations and Pressure
Let’s not sugarcoat it — being the starting quarterback at Georgia comes with pressure. Following in the footsteps of a national champion (Bennett) and a Heisman finalist (Beck) is no small task.
But insiders believe Stockton is built for the moment:
“He’s got the poise of Jake Fromm, the mobility of D’Wan Mathis, and the mindset of Stetson Bennett,” said one assistant coach anonymously. “We haven’t had this much versatility at the QB position in years.”
The goal, as always in Athens, is not just SEC dominance — it’s a national championship. And with a loaded defense, stacked receiver room, and elite coaching staff, Georgia once again enters the season as a Playoff favorite.
🐶 Bulldog Nation Reacts
The fanbase’s response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive:
💬 “It’s Gunner Time! Let’s ride!”
💬 “Been waiting on this since he committed. Kid’s a dawg in every sense.”
💬 “Love Beck, but this kid brings juice. Can’t wait for August 30.”
Social media lit up with videos of Stockton’s high school highlights, spring game clips, and predictions of a Heisman campaign.
✍️ Final Take: The Dawgs Are in Good Hands
While the departure of Carson Beck left a momentary void, it didn’t take long for Georgia to pivot — because the plan was already in place. Gunner Stockton is not a desperation move. He’s not a gamble. He’s the next man up in a program that continues to reload, not rebuild.
If everything clicks, this could be the year Georgia returns to the College Football Playoff — and Gunner Stockton could emerge not only as the face of the Bulldogs, but one of the faces of college football.
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