Any Georgia football player should be able to get up for their rivaly matchup against Florida. The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party is one of the most historic rivalries in the SEC, so no player should need help finding the motivation to show up for this game.
Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton however is drawing on some motivation that no other player will be able to relate to. Stockton's grandfather, Lawrence Stockton, tragically passed away from a heart attack in the stadium parking lot immediately after Georgia lost to Florida in 2010. This moment has stuck with Stockton ever since and is the biggest reason why he wants to beat Florida this weekend.
"He had a heart attack there at the stadium," Gunner Stockton said via ESPN.com. "Every time we go to Florida, I really want to beat them bad in Jacksonville."
Gunner Stockton shares surreal source of motivation vs Florida
Stockton obviously doesn't blame Florida for his grandfather passing away, but it isn't surpring that this is giving him some extra motivation heading into this matchup.
Ever since this terrible moment took place in 2010, it's likely that Stockton and his family have had a hard time every time Georgia and Florida played each other. Every time these two teams faced off it was a reminder of how they lost a husband, father and grandfather on a day when everyone should be able to just enjoy an intense college football game. Unfortunately they have not been able to enjoy that luxury since.
This will be Stockton's first time leading Georgia against Florida, and how special would it be for him and his family for UGA to get the win in honor of his grandfather. While this win would mean so much for Georgia as they pursue their goals this season, honoring his grandfather is the thing Stockton likely cares about most. So don't be surprised to see Stockton play with more passion than he usually does, because he will be playing for his grandfather and his entire family on Saturday.
Kickoff between Georgia and Florida is scheduled for 3:30 pm EST on Saturday Nov. 1 and the Bulldogs are currently favored to win by 7.5 points according to FanDuel Sportsbook.