Between the Hedges: Carson Beck Out, Gunner Stockton In

Not the news Georgia fans were hoping for. Bulldogs fans’ worst fears were confirmed Thursday night when multiple outlets confirmed that Carson Beck would miss the Dawg’s Playoff Run. Where does Georgia turn now that Beck is out for the College Football Playoff? We dig into the Bulldog’s new QB1: Gunner Stockton.

Carson Beck Out, Gunnar Stockton In

What happened to Beck?

Georgia clinched a bye in the College Football Playoff and the No. 2 seed after defeating Texas in the SEC Championship in early December. What did the championship cost? Their quarterback. Beck suffered a UCL injury in his throwing elbow just before halftime, sidelining him for most of the game. Beck briefly returned in overtime, coming in on the game’s final play in overtime handing off the game-winning touchdown by Trevor Etienne.

Reports from ESPN indicate Beck is exploring surgery to address the injury and has not rejoined the team since practices resumed for the upcoming 12-team playoff. On3’s DawgsHQ confirmed his continued absence. With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, Beck remains a potential first-round pick despite the setback.

What is Beck’s Legacy?

Beck has been Georgia’s QB1 for the last two seasons. He bide his time, waiting behind Stetson Bennet, and avoided dipping into the Transfer Portal to seek greener pastures. After beating out Brock Vandagriff for QB1 two years ago, Beck has taken almost every meaningful snap in the last two years. He leaves with a 24-3 record, two SEC Championship appearances, and some stats to make anyone blush. He threw for over 3,400 yards in both seasons and averaged 26 touchdowns through the air. Sure, Georiga’s 2024 season wasn’t what many expected, but that didn’t deter Beck. He was always positive with his teammates and did what he could to elevate the Dawg’s offense, which lacked a true #1 receiver or top tight end.

Who is Gunner Stockton?

Stockton is a native of Tiger, Georgia. Like Beck, the former five-star has bide his time and waited his turn to lead Georgia. At first glance, his stats look pedestrian against Texas in the SEC Championship. 12 of 16 for 71 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception. His legs, though, should excite fans and bring an element that was not a consistent threat under Beck. Kirby Smart and Mike Bobo will have a couple of weeks to prepare Stockton to take on the Indiana and Notre Dame winners.

What’s next for Georgia?

Georgia will face the winner of College Football’s first home playoff game on Friday night. The Indiana Hoosiers travel to South Bend to take on the Fighting Irish.

The post Between the Hedges: Carson Beck Out, Gunner Stockton In appeared first on Last Word on College Football.