As the college football world gears up for the 2025 season, much of the attention remains fixated on star quarterbacks. Among them, Texas quarterback Arch Manning has captured headlines as the presumed heir to greatness, touted by analysts as the Heisman frontrunner and the top quarterback in the nation. But in the shadow of this hype stands Georgia’s Gunner Stockton—a quarterback who, by many measures, deserves just as much recognition, if not more.
A Tale of Two Quarterbacks
Stockton and Manning both entered college as highly touted prospects, with Manning bearing the weight of his family legacy and Stockton earning accolades as one of the nation’s top dual-threat quarterbacks. However, the disparity in media attention between the two has been glaring. Manning, ranked No. 2 among SEC quarterbacks by 247Sports, has yet to match the substance of Stockton’s early achievements on the field.
Despite limited action, Stockton has already shown glimpses of brilliance, most notably leading Georgia to a thrilling come-from-behind victory in the SEC Championship game against Texas—Arch Manning’s team. Stockton’s poise under pressure in such a critical game is a testament to his readiness for the spotlight.
Breaking Down the Numbers
While both quarterbacks are early in their college careers, a closer look at their stats reveals Stockton’s edge. Against ranked opponents, Stockton has posted more efficient numbers, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion against top-tier competition. Manning, on the other hand, has yet to produce a comparable performance that validates the overwhelming hype surrounding him.
Stockton also demonstrated growth in the limited playing time he received toward the end of last season. Though his performance in Georgia’s College Football Playoff loss to Notre Dame wasn’t perfect, it was a solid debut for a quarterback thrust into such a high-pressure situation.
A Motivated Leader for Georgia
As offseason discussions continue, Stockton’s doubters may be giving him the fuel he needs to silence critics. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has publicly defended his quarterback, emphasizing his confidence in Stockton’s potential. Stockton’s fiery demeanor and work ethic make him a perfect fit to lead the Bulldogs in their pursuit of another SEC title and potentially a national championship.
The Bottom Line
Offseason hype may not dictate on-field success, but it’s clear that Stockton has been unfairly overlooked in favor of Manning. If Manning is to be hailed as the future of college football, then Stockton, with his proven clutch performances and determination, deserves a seat at the same table. As the season approaches, Stockton’s story is one that fans and analysts alike should be watching closely.
