On Saturday, the Georgia Bulldogs will face the Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship, a game that represents a significant opportunity for redemption. The Bulldogs, currently ranked No. 3 in the nation, are making their fifth consecutive appearance at this championship event, a record-tying feat. Earlier this season, the then-ninth-ranked Crimson Tide handed Georgia its only loss, breaking a six-year undefeated streak at home with a 24-21 victory on Dooley Field.
This matchup is not just another game for the Bulldogs; it is a chance to avenge that earlier defeat in front of a national audience. The players are keenly aware of the stakes involved. Kirby Smart, the head coach of the Bulldogs, emphasized the importance of having a strong leader at quarterback, stating, “They”re going to be the face of your organization, so you want to go after the right kind of person.” This season, that leader has been Gunner Stockton, a redshirt junior from Tiger, Georgia. Stockton has amassed 2,535 passing yards while completing 70.2% of his throws, with 20 touchdowns and just five interceptions. Additionally, he has rushed for 403 yards and leads the team with eight rushing touchdowns.
Stockton is well aware of the challenge ahead. “I”ve grown my confidence as the season”s gone on … at the start of the season I didn”t have that many banked reps,” he remarked. Competing in intense environments at venues like Tennessee and Auburn has bolstered his confidence. He credits his teammates for supporting him throughout the season, allowing him to perform at high levels consistently.
Smart praised Stockton”s contributions, highlighting his toughness, wisdom, and consistency. “He has brought toughness, he has brought wisdom, he has brought consistency,” Smart said. Every player on the team understands the history between Georgia and Alabama, and for Stockton, who grew up a Bulldogs fan, winning this championship is a dream come true. “Getting to play a team for a second time, one of the biggest parts is you get to watch the film from the game before. You can learn some things from the previous game,” he added.
Outside of football, Stockton embraces a rural lifestyle, often seen driving around campus in his grandfather”s 1984 Ford F-150. His dedication to the game is evident in his work ethic and the respect he commands from his teammates and coaches. “He”s physical, he”s super smart, and he can read the defense, even when they try to disguise it,” said linebacker Chris Cole. Stockton”s competitive spirit is undeniable, as he stated, “As a competitor, I can”t stand to lose.” His determination has helped the Bulldogs finish the regular season with an 11-1 record, setting the stage for this championship clash.
Even with his impressive performance this season, the coaching staff is not surprised by Stockton”s success. “He”s done a great job in terms of making the right decision with two, three options, and that puts you at an advantage,” Smart commented. With the experience gained from this season, the team believes they can achieve great things with Stockton at the helm. As a starter, he acknowledges the heightened responsibility of leadership, stating, “Now as the starter, a different mindset of leading the team.” The Bulldogs are prepared and eager to take on the Crimson Tide once more, aiming for a different outcome this time.
Regardless of the SEC Championship result, Georgia is firmly in the College Football Playoff picture as the No. 3 seed. However, Stockton”s focus remains on the upcoming game: “We”re getting to play in the SEC championship, a game that is an awesome venue. We”re excited for the opportunity.”
