What's Happening?
Gunner Stockton, the quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs, is on the verge of becoming only the second quarterback in the Kirby Smart era to achieve 30 consecutive starts. Stockton began his tenure as
the starting quarterback in the 2024 Sugar Bowl and continued through the 2025 season, amassing over 3,000 total yards and nearly 35 touchdowns. With the upcoming 2026 season, Stockton is expected to add another 15-16 starts, provided he remains injury-free. This achievement would place him alongside Jake Fromm, who holds the record with 42 consecutive starts from 2017 to 2019. Stetson Bennett is the only other quarterback under Smart to reach 30 starts, though not consecutively. Stockton's potential milestone underscores his consistency and leadership on the field.
Why It's Important?
Stockton's potential milestone is significant as it highlights the importance of stability and experience in the quarterback position, which is crucial for a team's success. Achieving 30 consecutive starts would not only demonstrate Stockton's durability and skill but also his ability to lead the team effectively. This consistency is vital for the Bulldogs as they aim for a deep run in the College Football Playoff. Stockton's performance could influence the team's strategy and confidence, impacting their chances in national championships. For the Georgia Bulldogs, having a reliable quarterback like Stockton could be a key factor in maintaining their competitive edge in college football.
What's Next?
As Stockton prepares for the 2026 season, his focus will be on maintaining his health and performance to achieve the milestone of 30 consecutive starts. The Bulldogs will likely strategize to support Stockton's continued success, potentially adjusting their offensive plays to maximize his strengths. If Stockton remains injury-free and performs well, he could lead Georgia to another successful season, possibly culminating in a College Football Playoff appearance. The team's management and coaching staff will be closely monitoring his progress, as his performance will be pivotal in their pursuit of championship titles.
