A stat Georgia fans aren't used to hearing: Gunner Stockton ran the ball exactly zero times against Tennessee State.
For a quarterback whose mobility, physicality, and willingness to make plays with his legs have become the core of his identity, that was out of the ordinary. But Georgia won 63-3, and against a tune-up opponent in the opening week, there was no reason to expose Stockton to unnecessary hits or reach deeper into the playbook.
Georgia fans hoping to get the full Gunner Stockton experience against Western Kentucky probably shouldn't expect it -- unless things go horribly wrong.
Gunner Stockton didn't need to be Gunner Stockton in the opener
In his first full year as a starter, Gunner's legs became an integral part of Georgia's success. Stockton brought something to the quarterback position that had been missing since Stetson Bennett IV left -- a running threat and the ability to escape when things break down.
Time and time again, Stockton used his running ability to extend drives and make the defense think twice about falling into zone coverage or Cover 3 schemes.
None of that was needed against Tennessee State, as Georgia's running backs and receivers did all the heavy lifting. Not putting the starting quarterback in harm's way was probably pasted on top of Mike Bobo's monitor.
Stockton took care of business and was out before the second quarter was even over. Job well done. Go back to the bench healthy and in one piece, young man.
Western Kentucky may give Georgia another reason to keep Stockton bubble-wrapped
If you're thinking we might see more of the Gunner Stockton run-show against WKU, you may be in for a disappointment. Georgia is once again a heavy favorite (40.5 points as of today, per FanDuel Sportsbook), so the muted Stockton may be on display once more.
Assuming the Bulldogs control the game the way they're expected to, why suddenly turn Stockton loose as a runner and expose him to potential hits? This is another opportunity to emphasize the parts of Stockton's game that actually need to develop.
Instead of depending on his legs, Stockton will more likely work from the pocket, go through progressions, continue to develop timing with the receivers, and build chemistry with an evolving offensive line.
But most of all? Avoid any unnecessary hits.
The real Gunner Stockton and his full arsenal are probably being saved for SEC play, and that is smart thinking by Kirby Smart and Mike Bobo.
Georgia's SEC opener at Arkansas is coming, followed by Oklahoma at Sanford Stadium. Those are the games where defenses may force Stockton to become the quarterback Georgia fans recognize -- extending plays, escaping pressure, and becoming part of the designed rushing attack.
If Georgia does what it should this Saturday, Stockton might once again look unusually ordinary. That's probably a good thing. The Bulldogs know what Gunner being Gunner looks like. There will be plenty of Saturdays when they'll need him to be just that.
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