In the lead-up to Georgia’s Sugar Bowl clash against Notre Dame, Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart acknowledged that the team’s offensive approach would likely remain unchanged, despite backup quarterback Gunner Stockton stepping in for Carson Beck. Beck, who suffered an elbow injury in the SEC Championship Game, will miss the game, and the decision regarding his future, including potential surgery and whether he will return to Georgia next season or enter the NFL Draft, is still pending.
Stockton, who took over for the second half of the SEC Championship Game and led Georgia to an overtime victory, has been preparing to take the reins for the Sugar Bowl. Smart noted that Stockton, a talented athlete, had been receiving increased practice reps with Beck sidelined, allowing him to continue improving. Although it remains unclear how much more Stockton will run the ball compared to Beck, Smart pointed out that both quarterbacks possess good athleticism.
In addition to adjusting to Stockton’s role, Smart emphasized the challenge of preparing for Notre Dame’s formidable defense. With a strong pass rush, aggressive man-to-man coverage, and physical play up front, the Irish are considered a tough opponent. While Georgia had been preparing for either Notre Dame or Indiana prior to their matchup, now that they know the opponent, the Bulldogs are focusing on Stockton and his backup, true freshman Ryan Puglisi, to face Al Golden’s defense.
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