Georgia banking on backup Gunner Stockton in Sugar Bowl

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – On New Year’s Day, there will be a new starter at quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs. After Carson Beck’s season-ending injury in the SEC Championship, UGA is now resting its College Football Playoff hopes on backup Gunner Stockton.

Aside from some mop-up minutes earlier in the season, Stockton’s only game action came in the second half of the SEC Championship after Beck got hurt. But in that time, he managed to convert on 12-of-16 pass attempts, while leading Georgia to an overtime win. And confidence in the new QB is not something that seems to be lacking in Athens.

“Gunner has the team behind him right now, and we believe in his ability to come in and get the job done and do what we need,” said defensive lineman Mykel Williams.

Defensive back Malaki Starks added, “I think it’s just the confidence that he has in himself. I think you see everybody having confidence in him when you see him step out and he’s running guys over. That’s just the confidence that he has in his game, and that’s another reason why it makes it so easy to follow.”

“Gunner is a confident player,” said inside linebacker Jalon Walker. “He’s confident in his skillset, and he’s always determined to make the best plays possible, not only for himself but for our team.”

For the first time in three and a half weeks, Georgia will take the field Wednesday night against Notre Dame, with the winner advancing to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Kick off from New Orleans is set for 8:45 p.m. ET.

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