Georgia’s Gunner Stockton Responds to Being Doubted During 2025 SEC Media Days
ATLANTA, July 15, 2025 — At the 2025 SEC Media Days, sophomore quarterback Gunner Stockton faced mounting scrutiny with the poise and resolve of a seasoned leader. After stepping into high‑pressure moments last season, Stockton used this public platform to address doubters and assert his readiness to lead Georgia’s offense.
Embracing the Spotlight
Kirby Smart, now in his 10th season at the helm of the Bulldogs, introduced Stockton as a prime example of leadership and preparation. Although Smart stopped short of naming him the official starter, his praise spoke volumes: “He’s prepared every game as if he was the starter… he actually did it,” Smart told reporters Reddit+13New Canaan Advertiser+13NBC Sports+13.
Despite smart’s cautious approach, Stockton sounded anything but nervous when asked whether he’s ready to silence the critics.
Silent No More
Stockton didn’t deliver brash declarations, but his tone was confident and composed. Recalling the moments he filled in for Carson Beck—especially during the SEC Championship and Sugar Bowl—he emphasized consistent preparation:
“I prepared every day like I was the starter,” Stockton said. “When my number was called, I didn’t hesitate.” UGASports+15New Canaan Advertiser+15Midland Reporter-Telegram+15
Those words weren’t just about semantics. They were a quiet challenge to those who questioned his abilities. Through calm repetition, he built credibility—one statement at a time.
Backed by Results
Stockton’s 2024 season résumé offers tangible substance: stepping in during the SEC Championship, he completed 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards and with a key interception, helping Georgia secure a 22–19 OT win over Texas Connecticut Post+12Wikipedia+12ESPN.com+12. He then led the Bulldogs in the Sugar Bowl, completing 20 of 32 passes for 234 yards and a touchdown statesman.com+15Wikipedia+15baynews9.com+15.
Despite the loss to Notre Dame, Stockton’s performance convinced both teammates and coaches. Smart noted how Stockton’s confidence and command grew—particularly in the spring scrimmages—reinforcing his readiness for a starting role statesman.com+15baynews9.com+15Midland Reporter-Telegram+15.
Smart’s Confidence, Official or Not
Coach Smart reiterated how Stockton prepares: tirelessly watching extra film, staying mentally sharp, and mentally embracing the role of a starting quarterback ESPN.com+9New Canaan Advertiser+9Midland Reporter-Telegram+9. The coach went on to say Stockton “is the guy that leads that offense right now” and has “done a tremendous job this summer” .
Yet Smart carefully hedged against declaring him QB1 outright, citing ongoing competition—particularly with redshirt freshman Ryan Puglisi .
Battling the Critics
Doubts surrounding Stockton haven’t gone away. Some critics argue he lacks arm strength or has a longer-than-ideal release . Others worry about accuracy and his ability to win deep throws .
Stockton acknowledged such critiques without bitterness:
“That’s part of the game. You either respond or you don’t.”
In response, he committed to refining his footwork and instincts—efforts that showed during spring camp and G-Day .
Spring Momentum
Stockton’s preparation extended beyond mere practice hours. He worked with new teammates, notably transfer receivers Noah Thomas and Zachariah Branch, to build chemistry . In April’s G-Day scrimmage, he completed 16 of 34 passes for 309 yards, two TDs, and one interception—impressive lines that helped secure first-team status .
Teammates noted his improved decision-making and confidence reading the field; linebacker Raylen Wilson called him “resilient… tough… never gets discouraged,” a necessary mindset to respond to critics and lead effectively .
The Road Ahead
Stockton’s message was clear: performance speaks louder than talk. Armed with game experience, improved mechanics, and steady leadership, he appears ready to take on SEC defenses. But Georgia’s quarterback room remains very much alive with competition—especially from Puglisi, who offers arm strength and upside .
Stockton welcomed the challenge head‑on:
“We’ve got a job to do. Competition pushes us all to get better.”
Takeaway
As he stood behind the podium in Atlanta, Stockton exuded the quiet confidence of someone who has earned the right to speak, even without shouting. His message: prepare relentlessly, learn from every opportunity, and let your performance answer the doubters.
On August 30, Georgia opens the season against Marshall. All eyes will be on Stockton to see if he converts words into wins—and silence the cynics once and for all.
In short: Stockton leveraged SEC Media Days to show that, despite lingering questions, he’s not only ready but determined. The upcoming season may reveal whether he can elevate his game—and Georgia’s offense—to new heights.
