How Will Georgia’s Offense Change With Gunner Stockton at Quarterback?
As college football programs evolve, changes in key positions often signal a shift in style and strategy. For the University of Georgia, one of the most successful football programs in the country in recent years, the quarterback position has traditionally been a cornerstone of their success. With Stetson Bennett’s departure, Georgia faces a significant transition. Gunner Stockton, a highly touted recruit, has emerged as a potential future leader for the Bulldogs. But how will Georgia’s offense change with Stockton at quarterback?
As the Bulldogs move forward into the next chapter of their offensive evolution, Stockton’s skill set and style of play could usher in a new era. While Georgia has been known for a balanced attack centered around a strong running game, the addition of Stockton as the starter could bring about a shift that further diversifies their offensive playbook.
Who is Gunner Stockton?
Before exploring how Stockton could change Georgia’s offensive identity, it’s important to understand what makes him unique. A dual-threat quarterback from the state of Georgia, Stockton came to Athens as one of the top-ranked quarterbacks in his recruiting class. At Rabun County High School, he showcased a blend of athleticism, arm strength, and football IQ that caught the attention of college coaches around the country. His ability to throw from the pocket and make plays with his legs allowed him to excel both in high school and in all-star games.
Stockton’s high school career demonstrated an ability to read defenses, make accurate passes, and keep plays alive when things broke down. His versatility as a passer and runner makes him a dynamic player, one that can adapt to various offensive schemes. As the backup quarterback for the 2023 Georgia Bulldogs, Stockton’s skill set has been on full display, especially during practice and limited game reps.
What Will Change with Stockton Under Center?
1. The Evolution of the Passing Game
Under Stetson Bennett, Georgia’s offense became more balanced between the running and passing games. Bennett, though not known for his physicality or rocket arm, was an efficient and smart quarterback who could make big throws when needed. However, with the more athletic and physically gifted Stockton taking over, Georgia’s passing attack could take on a more aggressive and versatile look.
Stockton’s arm strength is one of his most notable attributes, and he has the ability to stretch the field vertically, which may prompt offensive coordinator Mike Bobo to incorporate more downfield passing into the game plan. While Georgia will still likely maintain its reputation for a power-run game, having a quarterback like Stockton could open up opportunities for deeper throws and more dynamic routes from their wide receivers.
In particular, Stockton’s ability to make plays outside the pocket could lead to more improvisation and spontaneous plays in the passing game. Unlike Bennett, who often relied on quick reads and efficient, short-to-medium throws, Stockton has the ability to take risks and push the ball down the field when the situation calls for it. This could lead to an increase in explosive plays for Georgia, something that was sometimes lacking in the past.
2. Increased RPOs and Read-Option Plays
One of the hallmarks of a dual-threat quarterback is the ability to execute read-option and run-pass option (RPO) plays. Gunner Stockton has demonstrated excellent vision and decision-making as a runner, making him an ideal candidate to run these types of plays. With Stockton at the helm, Georgia could see a more integrated read-option element in their offense, where Stockton has the ability to make decisions on the fly—either handing the ball off to a running back, pulling it to run himself, or opting to pass.
Georgia’s offense has traditionally been centered on the power run game, often featuring talented running backs like Kendall Milton and Daijun Edwards, who thrive in physical situations. Stockton’s ability to read defenses on the fly could elevate Georgia’s running game by making the defense account for his mobility and passing threat at all times. This added dimension could keep opposing defenses guessing, as they will have to account for both the running backs and Stockton’s legs.
The RPO system could also allow Georgia to further diversify their attack. On passing plays, Stockton could make quick decisions about where to go with the ball based on the movement of the defense. This flexibility could make the Bulldogs more unpredictable and difficult to game plan against.
3. Faster Tempo and More Spread Concepts
Gunner Stockton’s mobility and playmaking ability could also enable Georgia to implement a faster tempo and spread concepts in their offense. In recent years, Georgia has utilized a more traditional pro-style offense, relying on power running and play-action passing. With Stockton, however, the Bulldogs may incorporate more up-tempo schemes that utilize his mobility to stretch defenses horizontally and vertically.
Stockton’s ability to read the defense quickly and deliver the ball accurately could allow Georgia to run more no-huddle offense, putting pressure on opposing defenses and forcing them to adjust on the fly. The increased tempo could also make the Bulldogs more dynamic and allow them to exploit mismatches as they move the ball down the field.
In terms of spread concepts, Stockton’s versatility and athleticism allow him to operate in various formations, including shotgun, pistol, and spread sets. These formations create additional opportunities for quick passes to the wide receivers or for Stockton to keep the ball and run. While Georgia’s identity has been built on a tough, physical style of football, Stockton could help bring more modern offensive concepts into the fold, creating a more dynamic and unpredictable attack.
4. An Expanded Role for Georgia’s Wide Receivers
With the departure of several key offensive contributors, including tight end Brock Bowers, Georgia’s wide receivers could play a larger role in the offensive game plan with Stockton under center. Stockton’s arm strength and ability to read defenses quickly could allow for more opportunities for wide receivers to make plays downfield.
While Georgia has traditionally leaned on tight ends like Bowers and Darnell Washington in the passing game, the shift to more spread concepts could result in increased opportunities for Georgia’s wideouts, especially those with speed and route-running ability. Stockton’s ability to push the ball down the field and work outside of the pocket could open up more deep passing lanes and opportunities for receivers to get behind the defense.
5. The Impact on the Running Game
Though Stockton’s mobility will certainly affect the passing game, it is important to note that his running ability could also impact Georgia’s traditional ground attack. While the Bulldogs’ offensive line has been one of the best in college football, Stockton’s ability to extend plays and make defenders miss could lead to more yards on the ground.
His ability to read the defense and make quick decisions on option plays will also keep defenses on their toes, particularly in short-yardage situations. Defenses will no longer be able to focus solely on Georgia’s elite running backs, as Stockton’s legs will be another weapon to account for.
Conclusion: A New Era for Georgia Football?
In summary, Gunner Stockton’s arrival as Georgia’s starting quarterback has the potential to alter the Bulldogs’ offensive dynamic in a number of ways. His dual-threat ability, arm strength, and mobility could provide an element of unpredictability to Georgia’s traditionally run-heavy offense. With Stockton under center, expect a more aggressive, faster-paced attack that will feature more downfield passing, RPOs, and read-option plays, while still relying on the power running game that has defined the Bulldogs’ success.
For Georgia fans, Stockton’s potential could usher in an exciting new era of offensive football. His unique skill set gives the Bulldogs the ability to evolve their offensive identity, combining traditional power football with modern spread and tempo-based concepts. If Stockton can harness his talents and develop into a consistent and efficient leader, Georgia’s offense could be more explosive than ever, setting the stage for a potentially thrilling season ahead.