Legendary college football coach and analyst Nick Saban recently shared his thoughts on Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton ahead of the highly anticipated Sugar Bowl matchup between the Bulldogs and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. This game will determine which team advances to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
For Bulldog fans, the excitement surrounding the game is mixed with unease, as Stockton will be making his first career start at quarterback. With Carson Beck sidelined for the season due to a UCL injury, the spotlight shifts on to Gunner Stockton. Though Stockton is not a household name, but he has already caught the attention of notable figures in the college football world.
Saban reflected on his long-standing connection with Stockton, a relationship that dates to the quarterback’s youth.
“I’ve known Gunner since he was 8 years old,” Saban said. “I’ve been watching him play since he was a kid. We recruited him to Alabama, but I think his heart was always set on Georgia. He adds something different to their offense. … He’s a better runner, though I wouldn’t say he’s a better passer (than Carson Beck).”
Saban also praised Stockton’s leadership qualities and noted Georgia’s offense could have a different feel against Notre Dame with Stockton under center.
“They showed confidence in him with the way they played,” Saban observed. “In the second half of the (SEC championship) game, they weren’t holding anything back to protect him.”
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Saban made his comments on “The Pat McAfee Show”.
Stockton tries to lead the Bulldogs to victory in his debut as a starter and keep Georgia’s championship hopes alive. The clash with Notre Dame is scheduled for New Year’s Day. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:45 p.m. ET on ESPN.