The Georgia Bulldogs remain undefeated after a nail-biting 44-41 overtime victory against the Tennessee Volunteers in Knoxville, a game that will surely be remembered as quarterback Gunner Stockton’s first signature moment in red and black. Georgia’s winning streak stayed intact, but more importantly, the team may have found the confidence it needs in its young leader under center.
The contest nearly slipped away at the end of regulation when Tennessee kicker Max Gilbert missed what would have been a game-winning field goal. Although Gilbert connected in overtime, Georgia’s response was emphatic. Behind a determined offensive line and a steady Stockton, the Bulldogs pounded the ball on the ground and sealed the dramatic win.
Stockton’s performance stood out not just because of his numbers, but because of his poise. The sophomore signal-caller completed 23 of 31 passes for 304 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 38 yards and another score. He was sacked three times and lost a costly fumble, yet showed maturity by bouncing back and making plays when Georgia needed them most.
Head coach Kirby Smart’s trust in Stockton was evident. While defensive lapses and questionable coaching decisions from assistants kept Tennessee in the game, Stockton’s steady hand ultimately delivered the victory. His leadership stood in sharp contrast to Tennessee’s Joey Aguilar, who faltered down the stretch with turnovers.
“This was a building-block win,” Smart said. “Gunner proved he can handle the moment, and the team rallied around him.”
For Georgia, this game provides both encouragement and urgency. The secondary’s struggles were glaring, as Tennessee’s receivers repeatedly found openings and forced pass interference calls. The Bulldogs also looked shaky in protection at times, allowing Stockton to take unnecessary hits. These are issues that must be corrected before Alabama comes to Athens after the bye week.
Still, the bigger picture is clear: Stockton delivered his first defining moment in a Georgia uniform. His performance evoked memories of Jake Fromm’s breakout win at Notre Dame in 2017 and Carson Beck’s gritty road victory at Auburn in 2023. Those games proved to be turning points for Georgia quarterbacks, and Stockton’s showing in Knoxville could carry similar weight.
Georgia may not have played a flawless game, but championship contenders rarely do. Instead, they win when the odds tilt against them — and on Saturday night, thanks to Stockton, the Bulldogs did just that.
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