Kirby Smart addresses Georgia's backup quarterback situation behind Gunner Stockton

The injury to Carson Beck hasn’t only forced backup quarterback Gunner Stockton into a starting role, but the rest of Georgia’s depth chart at the position is one step closer to getting on the field in a pivotal situation for the Bulldogs.

With a chance at the College Football Playoff Semifinals on the line on New Year’s Day against Notre Dame, it’ll be up to Stockton to lead the Georgia offense. However, Kirby Smart was complimentary of Georgia’s other backup quarterbacks, Ryan Puglisi and Jaden Rashada, as they’ve seen some extra reps over the past couple weeks, with Stockton being elevated to the starting quarterback.

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“They’ve done a great job,” Smart said, regarding his quarterback situation behind Stockton, via a press conference. “No. 1, it makes you realize how close you are to having to go into the game, when it’s like, the next thing. When you’re sitting there with a guy between you and the guy, it’s different than when you’re the guy, and you’ve got to be the next guy. Their reps have gone up. So, in a weird way, it’s been a blessing, because I’ve seen both those kids really accelerate. You’d like to have seen that acceleration without this happening, but they’ve gotten more reps. They’ve gotten more important reps. They’re taking all Gunner’s reps, because Gunner’s taking all of Carson’s reps.

“So, I’ve been very pleased with both of those guys. I think they’ve embraced the role, and understand that it’s just a lot more urgent now. I’m proud of what they’re doing.”

Even though Puglisi and Rashaad might not have expected to be in this position, they’ll be ready if they’re called upon. The Allstate Sugar Bowl will kickoff at 8:45 p.m. at the Caesars Superdome, with both the Georgia and Notre Dame vying to advance to the Semifinals. 

Moreover, Georgia defeated the Texas Longhorns to capture the SEC title, which led to them receiving a bye during the First Round of the CFP. As for the Fighting Irish, Notre Dame welcomed Indiana to South Bend, where they took care of business to advance to the Sugar Bowl, setting up a massive showdown between two of college football’s biggest brands.

The Caesars Superdome should be rocking, as Georgia and Notre Dame fans certainly made the trip to New Orleans for the showdown. Whichever team gets the victory will have a date with the Penn State Nittany Lions next on the docket, as they defeated the Boise State Broncos on New Year’s Eve to clinch their spot in the Semifinals already.

Time will tell if Gunner Stockton stays healthy, or if Ryan Puglisi and Jaden Rashada see the field in New Orleans on Wednesday evening.