Georgia’s Freshman QB to Make His First Start Against the Fighting Irish in High-Stakes Sugar Bowl
New Orleans – As the College Football Playoff quarterfinals unfold at the Allstate Sugar Bowl, the spotlight shifts to Georgia’s newly anointed starting quarterback, Gunner Stockton. Despite being thrust into the starting role due to Carson Beck’s season-ending elbow injury, Stockton’s challenge lies in proving himself against a seasoned Notre Dame defense, led by linebacker Jack Kiser, who is not underestimating the young QB.
Stockton’s rise has been a rapid one. The third-year sophomore had only seen limited action for the No. 2 Bulldogs until a pivotal moment during the SEC Championship game. When Beck went down in the first half of the Dec. 7 game against Texas, Stockton was called upon to lead Georgia. He quickly found himself in the heat of a dramatic 22-19 overtime victory, a performance that has set the stage for his first career start this Wednesday evening.
A New Era for Georgia
Despite Stockton’s lack of game experience at the college level, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has no doubts about his potential. With Beck’s departure to the NFL draft and season-ending surgery, the future of Georgia’s offense now rests with Stockton.
“He’s not the veteran guy, but at the same time, he’s playing at Georgia,” said Kiser. “He’s their starting quarterback. He was a big-time recruit. I don’t think you can underestimate this dude at all.”
Stockton’s performance in the second half against Texas—completing 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards, albeit with an interception—showed glimpses of the potential that earned him high praise in high school. However, the limited exposure has left much to the imagination for the Fighting Irish defense.
The Wild Card: Limited Film and Uncertainty
For Notre Dame, preparing for an unknown quantity is never easy, especially when facing such a high-stakes game. With only four games worth of tape on Stockton, defensive tackle Howard Cross III admits that game-planning has been challenging.
“I mean, we have limited film,” Cross remarked. “It’s kind of like having every piece of the puzzle except for one. We don’t really know if he’s a passing quarterback or a running quarterback. We know he’s good, but we don’t know what his tendencies are.”
This uncertainty poses a serious risk for the Fighting Irish. Stockton’s high school numbers were nothing short of impressive: a career 13,652 passing yards, 177 touchdowns, 4,372 rushing yards, and 77 rushing touchdowns. His senior season alone saw him complete 71.3% of his passes for 4,134 yards, 55 touchdowns, and just one interception.
A Dream Come True – Stockton’s Mindset
While Stockton’s inexperience at the college level is evident, his mindset heading into this monumental game is one of excitement rather than pressure. At Monday’s Sugar Bowl media day, Stockton expressed his enthusiasm about finally getting the chance to start, knowing the massive occasion in front of him.
“It’s awesome,” Stockton said. “I mean, it’s a dream come true. I’m excited and excited for the opportunity. It’s a special opportunity, and I’m enjoying it.”
His excitement is palpable, but the road ahead is filled with uncertainty. With no previous full-game experience, the question remains: Can Stockton carry Georgia through this pivotal playoff battle? The pressure is on, but Stockton’s high school legacy and raw talent make him a formidable opponent for the Irish.
Notre Dame’s Defensive Strategy
As kickoff approaches, Notre Dame’s defense knows they have their work cut out for them. With the unpredictable nature of Stockton’s style, the Irish will need to bring their best game to the field. There’s a significant gap between facing a seasoned QB and one whose style they can only guess at. But one thing is certain: Notre Dame will be ready for whatever Stockton brings.
Will Stockton’s dream come true on the biggest stage in college football? Or will Notre Dame’s defense shut down the Bulldogs’ new star before he can truly shine?
Only time will tell as the Fighting Irish face the rising star in the Sugar Bowl.
