The majority of Georgia football fans believe Gunner Stockton will be the starting quarterback in the fall, with some even predicting he could surpass Carson Beck’s 2024 season performance.
While it’s certainly possible for Stockton to outplay Beck, that can only happen if he wins the quarterback battle this offseason against Ryan Puglisi.
As the backup to Beck last season, Stockton currently holds an advantage over Puglisi with spring practices underway. However, that could quickly change depending on how both quarterbacks perform during spring and the offseason.
In a recent statement, head coach Kirby Smart suggested that Puglisi may have a better shot at the starting role than many fans expect.
“Yeah, both those guys are doing a great job,” Smart said via 247Sports. “I’m really pleased with where both of them are at. Ryan’s taking some reps with the ones. Gunner continues to grow and get better. I think both those guys are doing a great job.”
Puglisi Getting First-Team Reps
Smart’s remarks highlight that Puglisi is getting opportunities to work with the first-team offense, a notable sign that he’s a legitimate contender for the starting job.
If Stockton had already locked up the starting role, he would be taking all of the first-team reps, but that’s not the case at this point in spring practice.
It’s unlikely Smart will announce a starting quarterback for the 2025 season opener anytime soon, meaning Georgia fans may not know who will start until the team’s first offensive series this fall. While it may be a bit of a wait, this competition could ultimately benefit the team by ensuring the best quarterback is under center.
