Gunner Stockton's first true test of the 2025 season was a road trip to Tennessee. The Volunteers entered the game very confident that they would finally beat Georgia, but Stockton wasn't going to let that happen.
The Vols got off to a dream start as they led Georgia 21-7 at the end of the first quarter. That however is when Stockton and the Georgia offense woke up and stormed all the way back to win 44-41 in overtime. Stockton is arguably the biggest reason why they won this game as he completed 23 of 31 passes for two touchdowns while also running for a third score.
Everything that made Stockton a great quarterback last year was on full display throughout this game, and even though that game was a long time ago his performance hasn't escaped Tennessee defensive back Colton Hood's mind.
"I think Ty Simpson had a great game against us," Hood said via si.com. "He was hitting his spots and making great passes. I would also say Gunner Stockton. He had a great game against us too."
Tennessee DB can't get over how good of a quarterback Gunner Stockton is
Hood made this comment about Stockton during his NFL Combine interview a few weeks ago. Sure he was asked about former quarterbacks he played against during his college career, but he didn't have to mention Stockton. But he did name Stockton as one of the best and toughest quarterbacks he played agianst, and that is a huge honor.
Stockton however still has a lot to prove this fall. Sure he has already accomplished a lot during his career, but his lack of success in the College Football Playoff is the only thing holding his legacy back. The good news is that Georgia became one of the favorites to win it all after he announced his return to UGA, but he is going to have to find another gear if that is going to happen.
But it's clear that Stockton is already doing something right or else Hood would've never mentioned him during his Combine interview.