This offseason’s pace set the groundwork for Kirby Smart’s title chase. And he’s not letting history repeat itself after last season’s shaky run behind a horrible O-line and an inconsistent QB. Now, all eyes are on their brewing quarterback battle between Gunner Stockton and rising star Ryan Puglisi. Stockton’s got the playbook, and his strong showing against Texas already turned many heads, whereas Puglisi is yet to take a college snap, but he is emerging as a new fan-favorite QB faster than a rumor. Given Puglisi’s surging popularity, Smart might want to proceed cautiously before handing over control.

But what’s that which is urging fans to root for Ryan Puglisi despite Gunner Stockton’s impressive run last season? Well, that’s Ryan’s self-showcase on Instagram, where he is putting out all his off-season hustle and grind. Fans can clearly see the developments he’s making, and his caption that reads, “Even flow” sets the tone perfectly. This guy came as a 109th-ranked recruit and 10th QB in the 2022 cycle. Despite the hype, Puglisi didn’t see any game action, and the worst part is that last season, he and Carson Beck were in the QB1 battle, which ended up in Beck’s favor.

So, now it’s really Ryan Puglisi’s turn to shake things around and win this QB1 battle against Gunner Stockton. For now, Kirby Smart isn’t giving out any names, as both are still in their developing phase. “Both those guys are doing a great job,” Kirby Smart said. “I’m really pleased with where both of them are at. Ryan’s taking some reps with the ones. Gunner continues to grow and get better. I think both those guys are doing a great job.” But if anything, Georgia’s spring practice told us it’s that Gunner Stockton is emerging as an ultimate game changer.

During Georgia’s G-Day, Gunner Stockton took all of his reps with the first-team offense and completed 17 out of 34 passes for 309 yards with two touchdowns. Both were pretty impressive; one was a 31-yard score to Jeremy Bell, and the other was a 23-yard pass to Sacovie White. Meanwhile, Puglisi completed 23 out of 49 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns. So, even though he wasn’t bad, Gunner’s skills were making the most amount of noise. But Kirby Smart had a critical approach towards both of them.

“Both did some good things, and both did some poor things, which, when you get in a game environment, they need that,” Smart said. “They need a game environment, they need a pocket, they need to live, and they need to play football. And they continue to get better. They understand they have some weapons on the outside.” But here’s the kicker: some analysts still raise eyebrows at the notion of Gunner Stockton taking the reins, and that adds up to more weight to Ryan Puglisi’s hype.

Now, ESPN analyst Aaron Murray didn’t completely shut down Gunner Stockton’s hype train but served up a tough reality check. “I think you have to kind of trust the process a little bit. Understand that yes, we live in this transfer portal age, where it’s nice to know that hey, we just went into the portal, got a receiver. Got a left tackle. Got a quarterback that has two years of experience; we’ve seen the tape.”

“It’s nice as a fan to go into a season with that confidence. But it’s a little bit harder nowadays to trust that, hey, that quarterback Gunner Stockton, who’s been in the system and has played games, is going to develop and get the time and reps now necessary in spring and in fall camp, summer to be a legitimate quarterback within the SEC,” Murray said.

With this growing skepticism and fan support surging for Ryan Puglisi, things might turn real fast for Gunner Stockton.

Gunner Stockton’s popularity sees a major hit

Look, Gunner Stockton came as a calm in chaos after Carson Beck’s UCL injury ended his season with the Bulldogs. This guy didn’t just hold up the team’s game against the Longhorns but also made a notable impact against ND. How? This guy completed 20 out of 32 passes for 234 yards and a TD; despite the loss, he shined bright. But now it looks like his aura is fading, and Ryan Puglisi is turning out to be the “next” fan-favorite QB for Georgia.

Ryan Puglisi’s buzz is undeniable. One fan perfectly captured it: “This guy gets it.” It’s not just his talent; it’s his dedication. His intense off-season workouts on Instagram weren’t for show; they were a statement. Fans see a focused player, striving to earn his place in Georgia’s quarterback competition—exactly the attitude the Bulldogs need. The pressure’s on now.

A fan’s comment, “You need to be our number one,” perfectly encapsulates the hopes resting on Puglisi’s shoulders. The starting quarterback role isn’t easily earned, and fans know it. Stockton’s experience is undeniable, but Puglisi’s work ethic and growing popularity position him to contend. This battle isn’t just about throwing ability; it’s about leadership under pressure.

The stakes are rising, the whispers intensifying. Another fan boldly proclaimed, “QB1!” That’s the goal for both young quarterbacks, but Puglisi’s clearly not just waiting in the wings. His intensity and focus have fans convinced he’s ready to seize the starting role. Georgia’s quarterback competition isn’t just a battle; it’s a high-stakes duel between Puglisi and Stockton. Their mental fortitude is undeniable.

As one fan noted, “The kid never quits.” This isn’t for the weak; Puglisi’s relentless drive makes him a strong contender. Gunner Stockton has experience, but Puglisi’s never-give-up attitude speaks volumes.

Georgia’s quarterback battle is far from over. Fans are excited about Puglisi, who’s showing he could be the future. But Coach Smart’s taking a long-term view; he’s playing the long game. This competition will be key to Georgia’s championship hopes all season long, with both quarterbacks vying for the starting spot.