Current status of the UGA quarterback competition after Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi’s G-Day performances

As spring turns to summer in Athens, the Georgia Bulldogs have made one thing crystal clear: Carson Beck is the undisputed leader of the offense heading into the 2024 season. But behind Beck, the race to become Georgia’s next quarterback of the future is officially on—and G-Day may have been the first major milestone in that journey.

The annual spring scrimmage provided fans, coaches, and media alike with their first real look at Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi in a live-game setting. While Beck played a limited role—throwing just four passes over two series—the afternoon spotlight belonged to Stockton and Puglisi. Both delivered performances that offered a window into their current development, their strengths, and what might lie ahead for Georgia’s quarterback room beyond this fall.

Carson Beck: QB1 Without Question

Before diving into the battle between Stockton and Puglisi, it’s important to emphasize the current hierarchy. Carson Beck, entering his second season as the starter, has the position locked down after an impressive 2023 campaign that saw him throw for 3,941 yards, 26 touchdowns, and lead Georgia to a 13-1 finish and an Orange Bowl win.

Kirby Smart and offensive coordinator Mike Bobo have full confidence in Beck’s command of the offense, and barring injury, there’s no debate about his role in 2024. The G-Day format reflected that—Beck’s limited action allowed coaches to assess the young talent behind him. And that’s where the real intrigue begins.

Gunner Stockton: Calm, Confident, and Commanding

Redshirt sophomore Gunner Stockton looked like a player who has been in the system for multiple years. In his third spring with the Bulldogs, Stockton appeared calm, confident, and in full control of the offense. He completed 14 of 19 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns, consistently moving the ball and delivering in key moments.

Stockton showed strong footwork in the pocket, better touch on deep balls compared to previous spring outings, and a clear understanding of Georgia’s offensive structure. Perhaps most importantly, he looked like someone capable of leading an SEC offense if called upon.

His highlight play came in the second quarter—a 45-yard bomb to receiver Anthony Evans streaking down the sideline. The throw had touch, timing, and velocity. Stockton also added a 12-yard scramble that reminded fans of the dual-threat ability that made him one of the most productive quarterbacks in Georgia high school history.

After the game, Smart praised Stockton’s performance.

“Gunner’s a competitor. He’s been in our system and you can see his comfort level,” Smart said. “He played clean football today. Made good decisions. That’s what you want to see from a guy going into his third year.”

Stockton’s maturity is helping him win trust. If Beck were to miss time this fall, Stockton would be the most likely next man up based on his poise and operational understanding.

Ryan Puglisi: Flashing Future Star Potential

If Stockton was the steady hand on G-Day, true freshman Ryan Puglisi was the electric talent. The early enrollee from Connecticut impressed in his first major action, completing 9 of 17 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown, along with one interception. More importantly, Puglisi displayed the raw arm strength and fearless mentality that made him a four-star recruit and Elite 11 finalist.

His best throw of the day came on a 27-yard touchdown strike to tight end Pearce Spurlin, zipped over a linebacker and into a tight window. It was the kind of throw that few quarterbacks in the country—college or high school—can make consistently.

However, Puglisi’s youth also showed. His interception was the result of an overzealous deep attempt into double coverage, picked off by safety Joenel Aguero. There were also a few miscommunications with receivers, common for a quarterback who arrived on campus just a few months ago.

Still, the physical tools are undeniable. Puglisi has one of the strongest arms Georgia has had in years, and his quick release, mobility, and aggressive mindset make him a potential future star.

Smart acknowledged the growing pains but expressed confidence in Puglisi’s development.

“Ryan’s got all the tools,” Smart said. “He’s still learning. There’s a lot coming at him—defensive disguises, blitzes, new terminology. But he’s working, and he’s not afraid of the moment.”

Breaking Down the QB2 Battle

With Beck entrenched as the starter, the primary quarterback storyline entering summer and fall camp revolves around the No. 2 spot. Based on experience and consistency, Gunner Stockton holds the edge. But Puglisi is making a strong case that he could close the gap quickly.

Here’s how the battle shapes up heading into summer workouts:

Gunner Stockton

• Pros: Experience, comfort in the system, proven decision-making, athleticism
• Cons: Ceiling may not be as high as Puglisi’s; less natural arm talent
• Current Role: Backup quarterback, would be first in line if Beck is unavailable

Ryan Puglisi

• Pros: Elite arm strength, mobility, quick release, high football IQ
• Cons: Youth, needs more reps, decision-making still developing
• Current Role: No. 3 quarterback, but a rising threat to Stockton’s spot

This dynamic could turn into one of the most closely watched position battles in the country once fall camp opens.

Transfer Portal Watch: Will Everyone Stay?

In the modern college football era, quarterback depth is increasingly difficult to maintain. The spring transfer portal window adds another layer of uncertainty. So far, Georgia has avoided attrition in the quarterback room, but there’s always the possibility that someone could seek a better opportunity elsewhere.

Both Stockton and Puglisi are talented enough to start at many Power Five schools. If one sees limited opportunity to start in the next two seasons, the temptation to transfer could grow. However, Georgia’s reputation for player development and national exposure might be enough to convince both to stay and compete.

Smart was non-committal when asked if he expects any transfers.

“We’re honest with our players,” Smart said. “We don’t promise playing time—we promise an opportunity to compete. And right now, they’re all competing.”

What Happens in 2025?

The most intriguing aspect of the quarterback competition might be what it means for 2025 and beyond. Carson Beck is expected to enter the NFL Draft after the 2024 season, opening the door for a new starter.

If both Stockton and Puglisi remain in Athens, it sets up what could be one of the most fascinating quarterback duels in college football next spring. Stockton would enter with seniority and in-game reps, while Puglisi would have another year of development under his belt—and a case for being the higher-ceiling prospect.

Georgia also has a commitment from 2025 four-star quarterback Ryan Montgomery, adding yet another layer of complexity. Managing that room while maintaining continuity will be one of Smart and Bobo’s greatest challenges.

Final Takeaways from G-Day

The biggest takeaway from Georgia’s G-Day wasn’t just about statistics or splash plays—it was about stability. Georgia has three talented quarterbacks in Beck, Stockton, and Puglisi, and each brings something different to the table.

Beck is the now. Stockton is the steady. Puglisi is the future.

That’s an enviable position for a program that has national title aspirations every year.

Stockton’s G-Day performance solidified him as the top backup for now, but Puglisi’s raw talent makes him impossible to ignore. How both players handle the next few months—summer workouts, 7-on-7 reps, fall scrimmages—could determine who ultimately takes over the keys to the offense in 2025.

For now, Georgia fans can rest easy knowing the quarterback room is in excellent hands—today and tomorrow.

As Smart concluded in his postgame remarks:

“We’ve got a really healthy quarterback room. They push each other, they support each other, and they’re all getting better. That’s how championship programs are built.”