Gunner Stockton, the Georgia Bulldogs quarterback, finds himself in the middle of a growing debate as recent Southeastern Conference (SEC) quarterback rankings have placed him uncomfortably low on the list, stirring frustration among fans and confusion among analysts. Despite his immense talent, work ethic, and promise as a future leader for one of college football’s premier programs, Stockton’s omission from the top tier of SEC quarterbacks suggests a deeper narrative about media bias, underestimation, and the ever-evolving quarterback landscape in college football.
Stockton arrived in Athens with a mountain of expectations, having shattered high school records in Georgia and entering the collegiate ranks as one of the nation’s top dual-threat quarterback prospects. At Rabun County High School, he passed for over 13,000 yards and rushed for more than 4,000 more, accounting for a staggering number of touchdowns and displaying a rare blend of arm talent and athleticism. This pedigree, coupled with his development in Georgia’s system, should have positioned him as a breakout candidate in 2025.
Yet despite this, recent preseason rankings from several prominent media outlets have left Stockton near the bottom of the SEC quarterback list, often behind less experienced or less accomplished peers. This has baffled many in the college football world, particularly those close to the Georgia program, who see Stockton’s readiness to take over the Bulldogs’ offense as a major storyline heading into the season.
Part of the issue appears to stem from Stockton’s limited game film at the collegiate level. While he has patiently waited his turn behind experienced signal-callers like Stetson Bennett and Carson Beck, Stockton has not yet had a full season to showcase his skills on Saturdays. Media evaluators, heavily influenced by recency bias and statistical output, have tended to favor quarterbacks with more starts, even if those starts came with mixed results. For example, quarterbacks from programs with middling records but flashy passing numbers often get the nod over a player like Stockton, who has spent more time developing within a powerhouse program than on the field.
Another factor may be the ongoing challenge for Georgia quarterbacks to earn individual praise in a team-centric system. Under head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have built their identity on defense, discipline, and depth. Quarterbacks are expected to manage games, make smart decisions, and avoid turnovers rather than post eye-popping stats. Stockton, by all accounts, is mastering those responsibilities. However, the lack of highlight-reel plays or gaudy passing totals may be working against him in these rankings, which often reward style over substance.
Still, many within the Georgia camp believe this perceived slight will only serve as motivation for Stockton. Known for his competitive fire and intense preparation habits, Stockton has never been one to shy away from adversity. If anything, being ranked low may fuel a breakout season in which he proves his doubters wrong with consistent, winning performances.
The disrespect shown to Stockton in these rankings is not just about one player—it reflects broader trends in how quarterbacks are evaluated today. In an era dominated by social media clips, analytics-driven hot takes, and transfer portal reshuffling, the value of system knowledge, leadership, and toughness can get lost. Gunner Stockton represents a throwback in many ways: a quarterback who has stayed the course, learned from veterans, and is ready to lead one of the nation’s top teams without needing external validation.
As the 2025 season approaches, the spotlight will inevitably find Gunner Stockton. And when it does, the same analysts who doubted him may be forced to reckon with just how wrong they were. Georgia fans, coaches, and teammates already know the truth: the Bulldogs are in good hands.
