QUARTERBACK CHAOS IN ATHENS: Georgia Head Coach Kirby Smart Officially Declares Explosive and Wide-Open 2025 Quarterback Battle Between Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi as the Dawgs Gear Up for a Post-Carson Beck Era with Two Rising Stars Hungry to Lead the SEC’s Reigning Powerhouse
In a breaking announcement that has set the Georgia Bulldogs fanbase and college football world ablaze, head coach Kirby Smart confirmed that the program is heading into the 2025 offseason with an official open quarterback competition between Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi — two of the most talked-about young quarterbacks in the nation.
The declaration comes shortly after the conclusion of spring practices and the annual G-Day scrimmage, where both quarterbacks displayed glimpses of elite potential. Now, with Carson Beck set to depart for the NFL, the most dominant program in college football is preparing to launch a new era under center—and Smart isn’t handing the reins to anyone just yet.
> “We’ve got two guys who are extremely talented, extremely competitive, and extremely hungry,” Smart told reporters in a post-practice media conference. “This is going to be a real battle. Gunner and Ryan will both get every opportunity to earn it.”
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Meet the Contenders: Gunner Stockton vs. Ryan Puglisi
This quarterback battle isn’t just about replacing a veteran like Beck—it’s about shaping the identity of Georgia’s offense for years to come. Both Stockton and Puglisi bring unique skills to the table and are already considered high-ceiling passers with strong leadership traits.
Gunner Stockton, a redshirt sophomore from Rabun County, Georgia, is no stranger to Dawg fans. Once one of the most prolific high school quarterbacks in the state’s history, Stockton has been patiently waiting behind Beck and Brock Vandagriff, developing under offensive coordinator Mike Bobo and learning the system. His mobility, toughness, and experience within the program give him a slight edge in familiarity and chemistry.
Stockton has drawn comparisons to former Georgia QB Stetson Bennett, but with a stronger arm and more refined mechanics.
> “He’s a gamer,” one assistant coach reportedly said. “Every time he’s on the field, things happen. He doesn’t blink.”
On the other side, you have Ryan Puglisi, a 6’3” gunslinger from Connecticut who came into the program as a highly touted four-star recruit. Puglisi wowed coaches during spring ball with his deep ball accuracy and surprising command of the playbook. His arm talent is unquestioned, and his composure in the pocket has turned heads within the coaching staff.
At G-Day, Puglisi threw for over 180 yards and two touchdowns, showing he’s more than just a developmental project—he’s a legit contender.
> “He’s got that ‘it’ factor,” said offensive coordinator Mike Bobo. “He sees the field in a way that’s rare for someone so young.”
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Kirby Smart’s Quarterback Philosophy: Earn It, Don’t Expect It
Kirby Smart has long embraced a “best man wins” approach to his quarterback decisions, a strategy that has paid off with multiple SEC titles, national championships, and NFL-caliber QB development.
From Jake Fromm to Stetson Bennett to Carson Beck, Smart’s ability to groom and deploy quarterbacks at just the right time has helped turn Georgia into a dynastic force. Now, the pressure is on again—but Smart is making it clear that there will be no handouts.
> “We don’t crown guys based on potential. We crown them based on production. We’ll see who steps up this summer and this fall,” Smart emphasized.
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Fans, Analysts, and Former Dawgs Weigh In
The announcement has already triggered major debates on message boards and sports radio. Some fans are fully behind Stockton, citing his loyalty and experience in Athens. Others believe Puglisi’s upside and raw tools give Georgia a chance to evolve into a more explosive offensive unit.
Even former Georgia stars are chiming in.
> “I love what Gunner brings, but Puglisi? That kid is a star in the making,” said former UGA quarterback Aaron Murray on a recent podcast. “Either way, Georgia’s in good hands.”
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The Bigger Picture: Georgia’s Offensive Future on the Line
The QB battle won’t just decide who starts—it’ll shape the identity of the offense. Will the Dawgs lean into Stockton’s rugged, dual-threat style? Or will they unleash Puglisi’s cannon arm and field-stretching ability?
With a stacked roster, returning stars like tight end Oscar Delp, a loaded offensive line, and a wide receiver room that’s deeper than ever, the pressure to get the quarterback decision right is massive.
Smart and his staff know what’s at stake. The Dawgs aren’t rebuilding—they’re reloading. And the winner of this battle could very well be the next name on a list that includes some of Georgia’s most legendary leaders.
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Final Thoughts: A Dawg Fight Worth Watching
As the countdown to fall camp begins, all eyes will be on Athens. The Gunner Stockton vs. Ryan Puglisi showdown promises to be one of the most compelling quarterback competitions in all of college football.
Whether it’s Stockton’s grit and polish or Puglisi’s flash and upside, one thing is clear—the Georgia Bulldogs are not short on quarterback talent, and Kirby Smart is about to turn the heat all the way up.
Stay tuned. The Dawg fight for QB1 has officially begun—and only one can lead the charge into the next chapter of Georgia’s dynasty.
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