Who will replace Carson Beck as Georgia starter? Bulldogs' College Football Playoff scenario explored
Georgia quarterback Carson Beck is likely out for the entire College Football Playoff due to a UCL injury in his throwing elbow. The injury, sustained during the SEC Championship Game against Texas, occurred on the final play of the first half when a Texas defender grabbed his arm mid-throw.
Beck has been exploring surgical options, and there’s growing concern this setback could mark the end of his college football career. He hasn’t practiced with the team since the injury, leaving Georgia to face the playoffs without its starting quarterback. So, who takes over under center?
Who will replace Carson Beck in College Football Playoff?
Carson Beck's backup quarterback Gunner Stockton is set to start in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1. Stockton has limited game experience, appearing in just eight career games. However, he stepped up admirably in relief during the SEC Championship, throwing for 71 yards and an interception as Georgia rallied to stun Texas and secure its second conference title in three years.
With Stockton now likely leading the offense, Georgia faces an uphill battle in the College Football Playoff. But if their SEC Championship comeback proved anything, it’s that the Bulldogs thrive under pressure.
Also Read: Carson Beck fails to fit Georgia offense like Gunner Stockton, suggests CFB Insider Josh Pate
Georgia Bulldogs have no second thoughts about Gunner Stockton
The Georgia Bulldogs have no second thoughts about Gunner Stockton as they gear up for their Sugar Bowl playoff showdown. Stockton, the backup quarterback, has earned the trust of his teammates and coaches alike.
Coach Kirby Smart made it clear in an earlier statement, per The Atlanta Journal-Constitution:
“The team has a lot of confidence in Gunner. He’s very smart, very intelligent.”
For the past three years, Stockton has sharpened his skills by going head-to-head with Georgia’s elite defense in daily practice sessions. Thanks to their SEC Championship win, the Bulldogs have extra time during the bye week to get Stockton more reps, ensuring he’s ready for the big stage.
Linebacker Jalon Walker echoed the team’s belief during his appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show:
“When Gunner Stockton stepped on the field, I had no doubt,” Walker said [H/t The Atlanta Journal-Constitution]. “I came in with Gunner together as freshmen, and I always had confidence in him.”
"He’s played big-time football because he sees it every day,” he added. “I mean, he does a great job preparing himself mentally and physically of what he has to do for the game. And I feel like he’ll be fine.”
Stockton’s high school stats at Rabun County speak for themselves—13,652 passing yards, 177 touchdowns and just 17 interceptions, along with 77 rushing scores.
Also Read: Paul Finebaum issues an eye-opening remark for Carson Beck-less Georgia's playoff chances