Gunner Stockton Leads Georgia Into Massive Clash With Alabama

The Hometown Hero

Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton is not one to seek attention. He still drives a classic 1984 Ford F150 in his small hometown of Tiger, Georgia. Tiger has a population of fewer than 500 people, but everyone there knows who he is. A roadside sign in the area even reads, "Go Dawgs: Go Gunner! Gunner Stockton He1SM4N."

Jerry Taylor, who put up the sign, calls Stockton a hometown hero. Those who know him describe him as a down to earth kid who works hard. Before focusing on football, Stockton was a standout baseball player. He played for the East Cobb Astros alongside future major leaguers like James Tibbs III. He was named a MaxPreps All American in baseball during his high school years before enrolling early at Georgia.

Facing the Crimson Tide

Now, the senior quarterback has his eyes on a bigger goal. Stockton has been in incredible form this season. He has completed 75.5% of his passes for 1,049 yards, with 13 touchdowns and just one interception through five games.

Last week, Stockton threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns in a 38-14 win over Vanderbilt. Georgia coach Kirby Smart said he is pleased with the quarterback. "I think experience helps," Smart said. "I think experience matters."

Stockton will need that experience this weekend. Georgia faces Alabama, the team that beat them 24-21 last season and held Stockton to 130 passing yards. That loss also snapped Georgia's 33 game home winning streak.

What it means for the next game

Georgia Bulldogs at Alabama Crimson Tide (College Football, Sat, 10 Oct): Alabama Crimson Tide win 49%, Georgia Bulldogs win 51%; projected score Alabama Crimson Tide 27, Georgia Bulldogs 25. Our safest pick: Alabama +8.5.

Auburn Tigers at Georgia Bulldogs (College Football, Sat, 17 Oct): Georgia Bulldogs win 87%, Auburn Tigers win 13%; projected score Georgia Bulldogs 35, Auburn Tigers 16. Our safest pick: Over 39.5 points.