Stetson Bennett’s words carry a unique weight in Athens, Georgia. As the quarterback who helped lead the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships and cemented himself as one of the most beloved figures in program history, his opinions are not just soundbites—they are insights from someone who knows exactly what it takes to survive and thrive under the brightest lights of college football. Recently, Bennett shared his thoughts on Gunner Stockton, the young quarterback set to take the reins as Georgia’s starter in 2025, and his assessment was both confident and encouraging. For Bennett, who himself was once doubted and had to fight through an unconventional journey to the top, Stockton’s rise represents more than just a change on the depth chart—it’s the next chapter in the Bulldogs’ pursuit of continued dominance in the SEC and the national landscape.
Bennett described Stockton as a player who not only possesses the raw talent necessary to play at Georgia but also has the mental toughness required to handle the pressures that come with being the face of the program. In Bennett’s eyes, the quarterback position at Georgia isn’t just about throwing touchdowns—it’s about being the emotional heartbeat of the locker room, the steadying presence in chaotic moments, and the leader who sets the tone during both grueling summer workouts and high-stakes Saturdays in the fall. He emphasized that Stockton’s time learning behind experienced quarterbacks has been invaluable. That time on the sidelines, Bennett pointed out, has given Stockton the chance to understand the intricacies of offensive schemes, learn how to read complex defenses, and develop a calmness that will be critical when the Bulldogs find themselves in tight games against top-tier opponents.
Bennett’s belief in Stockton also stems from seeing how the young quarterback has approached preparation. As someone who was never considered the most physically imposing player yet still managed to outshine more highly-touted recruits, Bennett appreciates Stockton’s commitment to film study, his willingness to seek coaching feedback, and his relentless drive to improve the details of his game. Those habits, Bennett said, are what often separate a good quarterback from a great one, especially in a conference as competitive as the SEC. While Stockton’s physical tools—arm strength, mobility, and accuracy—are unquestionable, Bennett knows from experience that leadership and mental resilience are what truly define a championship-caliber quarterback.
Bennett also noted that Stockton enters the 2025 season with a strong supporting cast, something that can’t be overlooked. Georgia’s offensive line remains one of the most formidable in the country, and a deep, talented group of skill players surrounds him—running backs who can take pressure off the passing game, receivers who can stretch the field, and tight ends who create mismatches in coverage. Bennett believes this blend of experience and versatility will give Stockton the chance to settle into his role without feeling like he must carry the entire offense on his shoulders immediately. In Bennett’s view, this is the exact environment in which a first-year starter can flourish.
One of Bennett’s more interesting observations was that Stockton doesn’t need to “be” Stetson Bennett—he needs to be himself. Bennett acknowledged that there will always be comparisons between quarterbacks, especially when one is stepping into a role once held by a player who helped deliver historic titles. However, he stressed that Stockton’s success will come from embracing his own style of play rather than trying to replicate someone else’s blueprint. Whether that means taking more chances downfield, using his legs to create plays, or leaning heavily on quick, efficient throws, Stockton’s ability to trust his instincts will be vital in carving out his own legacy.
Bennett also reflected on how much of the quarterback position at Georgia is about understanding the program’s culture. Georgia football under Kirby Smart is built on toughness, discipline, and a refusal to be complacent. Bennett knows Stockton has been immersed in that mindset from day one, watching veterans approach every practice and every game with an intensity that matches the stakes of competing for national titles. That cultural grounding, Bennett said, is something many young quarterbacks elsewhere don’t have the benefit of, and it can accelerate Stockton’s growth into a confident leader.
Of course, Bennett is realistic enough to acknowledge that challenges will come. No first-year starter, no matter how talented, is immune to adversity. There will be moments when the offense stalls, when a defense confuses him, or when a costly mistake leads to a turnover. Bennett believes the true measure of Stockton’s readiness will be how he responds in those moments. From Bennett’s perspective, resilience isn’t built in blowout wins—it’s forged in those tense fourth quarters when everything is on the line. If Stockton can maintain composure in those situations and learn from the inevitable missteps, Bennett is confident he will emerge as a quarterback capable of leading Georgia deep into the postseason.
Bennett’s praise for Stockton also hints at a broader confidence in Georgia’s offensive coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo has a proven track record of adapting game plans to fit his quarterback’s strengths, and Bennett expects that flexibility to benefit Stockton tremendously. Rather than forcing him into a rigid scheme, Bobo will likely design packages that maximize Stockton’s mobility, allow for creative play-action opportunities, and give him easy completions early in games to build rhythm. Bennett knows that for a young quarterback, confidence often starts with execution on simple plays, and Georgia’s offensive design will be geared toward helping Stockton succeed right away.
Another factor Bennett pointed out is the advantage of entering the season with an elite defense backing you up. Georgia’s defense in 2025 is expected to be among the nation’s best yet again, which can give Stockton breathing room. In tight contests, knowing that the defense can get stops and create turnovers allows a quarterback to play without the constant fear of making one mistake that costs the game. Bennett recalled how during his own career, that trust in the defense allowed him to take calculated risks that often paid off, and he believes Stockton will benefit from that same dynamic.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Bennett made it clear that he sees Stockton as someone who understands the responsibility of representing the Georgia Bulldogs off the field as well. From engaging with fans to being a role model for younger teammates, the quarterback position at Georgia is as much about character as it is about performance. Bennett sees Stockton as someone who carries himself with maturity and humility—qualities that will serve him well in navigating both praise and criticism.
The excitement around Stockton’s promotion to starter is palpable among Georgia fans, and Bennett’s endorsement only adds fuel to the anticipation. Bulldog Nation has seen firsthand what can happen when a quarterback combines talent with work ethic and leadership. While expectations will be sky-high—such is the reality for any Georgia quarterback in the post-championship era—Bennett’s belief that Stockton is ready for the challenge should be reassuring to those wondering how the offense will fare with a new leader under center.
For Bennett, his confidence isn’t based on blind optimism—it’s rooted in watching Stockton develop over time, observing how he carries himself in the locker room, and knowing the type of competitive fire it takes to succeed at Georgia. As Bennett sees it, Stockton’s journey is just beginning, but all the signs point to him being the kind of quarterback who can keep Georgia in the hunt for championships year after year.
As the 2025 season approaches, the storyline of Gunner Stockton stepping into the starting role will be one of the most closely followed in college football. With Bennett’s public vote of confidence, the young quarterback now carries not only the trust of his coaches and teammates but also the backing of one of Georgia’s most decorated players. If Stockton can translate his preparation into on-field results, he will not only validate Bennett’s prediction but also write his own chapter in the Bulldogs’ storied history—a chapter Bennett believes could be filled with plenty of victories, leadership moments, and perhaps even more championship glory for Georgia.
