Carson Beck out, Gunner Stockton leads Georgia in CFP.
Georgia confirmed that starting quarterback Carson Beck will miss the College Football Playoff. Beck underwent surgery to repair a UCL injury he sustained during the SEC Championship game against Texas.
“Georgia quarterback Carson Beck underwent successful surgery Monday on his right elbow to repair his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles, Ca,” the team announced. “A full recovery is expected with throwing to begin spring of 2025.”
With Beck sidelined, Georgia turns to Gunner Stockton. The redshirt sophomore stepped in during the SEC Championship, completing 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards while adding 27 rushing yards. Stockton has been preparing for the spotlight as the Bulldogs gear up for their Sugar Bowl matchup against Notre Dame.
Coach Kirby Smart highlighted Stockton’s development. “I do think knowing when you get ready for an opponent like Notre Dame, you need time. … The biggest thing is just competition and practice. The situations we put him in. All those things allow him to get better as a quarterback,” Smart said.
Carson Beck’s season had highs and lows. He started strong, leading the SEC in passing touchdowns but also in interceptions. A midseason stretch saw him throw 12 picks in six games, but he rebounded by avoiding turnovers in Georgia’s final three regular-season games. Over those games, he threw for 11 touchdowns and 941 yards, helping Georgia maintain its undefeated regular season.
Beck’s UCL injury occurred on the final play of the first half during the SEC Championship. He returned briefly to hand off the winning touchdown, but it became clear that passing would be impossible without surgery.
The procedure, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, mirrors the internal brace surgery other quarterbacks, like Brock Purdy, have had in the past. Purdy returned to action within six months, which sets a similar timeline for Beck.
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