Spring in Athens has brought two things: blooming azaleas and an intense quarterback battle under the watchful eye of Kirby Smart. Seven practices into the Georgia Bulldogs’ 15-session spring camp, we’re deep into figuring out who will command their offense in the post-Carson Beck era. The departure of Beck, who left for Miami after the Sugar Bowl, has left a sizable void under center. The battle to replace him is well underway, with Gunner Stockton—Beck’s former backup—now stepping into the most scrutinized role in CFB.

He’s been here before, getting valuable snaps in the College Football Playoff, but now, the stakes are different. Georgia isn’t just looking for a #1 passer. They’re looking for a leader. Gunner Stockton understands that, and he’s embracing the weight of QB1. Speaking to the reporters post-session, the former four-star recruit acknowledged how his role is shifting as he competes for the starting job. “Yeah, it’s a different role,” Stockton said. “Play more of a leadership aspect. I mean, not—I mean, everybody, you’re leading every day—but just that position and being able to take command and just lead the right way.” Leadership isn’t just about what happens on Saturdays; it’s about setting the tone Monday through Friday. Stockton has been around long enough to understand that.

Head coach Kirby Smart knows that, too, and he isn’t handing out the job just yet. Coach Smart addressed the media following practice, making it clear that the competition is still open between Gunner Stockton and freshman Ryan Puglisi. “Yeah, both those guys are doing a great job. I’m really pleased with where both of them are at,” Smart said. “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.” If there’s one thing Smart loves, it’s competition.

He’s seen how it sharpens his roster year after year, and this spring’s quarterback battle is no different. Stockton might have the edge in experience, but Puglisi won’t be backing down, making this an all-out fight for the job.

#14 has been dreaming for this moment…

Stockton got his first career start in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame, stepping in for Carson Beck, who opted out before finalizing his transfer. It was a trial by fire. Stockton threw for 234 yards and a touchdown in Georgia’s 23-10 loss, a respectable showing given the circumstances. It wasn’t the ending Georgia wanted, but it gave Stockton valuable game reps, proving he could operate the offense when called upon. Then, just days later, Beck’s departure became official.

His decision to leave Athens for Miami sent shockwaves through the program, with reports surfacing of a lucrative NIL package luring him south. That wasn’t the only speculation surrounding Beck’s move. At the time, the quarterback was dating Hanna Cavinder, a guard for the Canes women’s basketball team, which led fans to connect the dots. Beck, heading to Miami, joining his girlfriend—it all seemed to fit. Until, of course, it didn’t. Two months later, the two reportedly split, leaving fans to wonder if Beck’s reasons for transferring had been more football-driven than initially thought.

Either way, the fallout from his decision has paved the way for Stockton to seize the moment. Now, with half of spring practice in the books, Stockton’s challenge is clear. He has to prove he can be more than just the next man up. He has to show he’s the guy.

Gunner Stockton’s 3-word message on Carson Beck drama

Carson Beck’s offseason has been anything but quiet. After deciding to transfer to Miami, he’s been making headlines—both for football and for linking up with his girlfriend. But back in Athens, the Georgia QB room had its own storyline unfolding, with Gunner Stockton now stepping into the spotlight.

Naturally, everyone wanted to know—did Beck give Stockton a heads-up before making the move south? When asked about it on Tuesday, Stockton kept it simple, offering just three words and a shrug:

“He was busy,” per Graham Coffey of Dawgs Central.

That’s about as honest as it gets. No drama, no speculation, just straight to the point—which, in today’s transfer portal era, is actually kind of refreshing. Beck had plenty on his plate and Stockton? Well, he’s got his own business to handle now, stepping into a bigger role with the Bulldogs.