Gunner Stockton continues to impress Kirby Smart during his first season as Georgia’s starting quarterback. Almost every game this season Smart has had something really positive to say about Stockton's performance, and that was the case once again after Georgia's win over Auburn on Saturday.
When discussing what impressed him the most about Stockton against the Tigers, Smart chose to use just one word. Composure.
"He's got composure. It's never been an issue," Smart shared via 247sports.com. "Composure is my issue, not his. He's got great composure. He's got poise in the pocket. He's tough. He takes hits. None of that surprised me because he's got it, right?"
Kirby Smart was impressed with Gunner Stockton's composure in win over Auburn
Nothing came easy for Stockton and Georgia's offense against Auburn. That was especially the case throughout the first half when the Bulldogs offense barely spent any time on the field. But Stockton didn't let that get to him, and once the second half began he really began flexing his muscles.
Stockton finished the night completing 24 of 37 passes for 217 yards. He also ran the ball nine times for 26 yards as well. Stockton did not throw a touchdown pass during this game, but he didn't let that impact him. He kept his composure all night long and when Georgia needed him most he delivered with a game-sealing 10-yard touchdown run that put Georgia up 20-10.
Stockton has had better statistical performances in his career and he will certainly have better games in the future, but Stockton proved on Saturday why he is a perfect leader. When everything seemed to be going wrong, Stockton remained focused on the task at hand. And when it was time to put Auburn away, he delivered and led Georgia to their ninth straight victory over Auburn.