Category: Georgia Bulldogs

Gunner Stockton appears the be the clear leader in the battle for the starting quarterback job at Georgia.

Georgia football enters the first weekend of spring ball still in the middle of a quarterback battle as Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi are the two options for the Bulldogs this fall to be the starting quarterback.

Most fans think the job is Stockton’s to win, and early signs show that to be the case. But Puglisi has the ability to challenge Stockton for the job this offseason, but according to Kirby Smart he has a “long way to go.”

“He’s a competitor,” Smart said via 247sports.com. “He’s a really good baseball player. He’s got arm talent. He’s got size. He’s a competitor. He was one of those guys that really flashed when he was on the scout team. You have a card, you don’t have a read, and you just fire away. He’s made some really good throws on the run. He’s got a strong arm. But he does have a long way to go in terms of learning exactly what we’re asking him to do, the command of the offense and the volume of the offense. He’s getting better at all those things.”

This comment from Smart makes it seem like the QB competition this offseason at Georgia isn’t much of a competition at all. Saying that Puglisi has a “long way to go” pretty clearly states that Smart doesn’t think he’s ready to take over as the starter this fall.

On top of that, Stockton so far has looked the part as QB1 in the early stages of spring ball as he has been the first QB to take reps in every drill so far.

Now this doesn’t mean Puglisi can’t catch up to Stockton and win the starting job this fall, but as it stands today during the first week of spring ball, it appears that Stockton is the clear leader to become the starting quarterback this fall.

The headlines for the Georgia Bulldogs from a recruiting perspective on Wednesday were focused on the visit of five-star quarterback Jared Curtis as they compete with the Oregon Ducks for his services.

But the Bulldogs also appear to be making progress in their bid to poach another signal-caller from one of the recent converts to the SEC.

Jaden O’Neal (Long Beach, Calif.) has already committed to the Oklahoma Sooners. However, the four-star quarterback spent Monday to Wednesday on campus in Athens, and the Bulldogs certainly cannot be discounted from a race that is a long way from over.

Per On3’s Steve Wiltfong, Georgia is in the process of finalizing an official visit with O’Neal. Wiltfong wrote of O’Neal’s visit to Georgia:

“Look for O’Neal to visit a couple other programs in the near future but, after spending time with [Kirby] Smart, offensive coordinator Mike Bobo and assistant quarterbacks coach Montgomery VanGorder, the defending SEC champs are making a big impression.”

O’Neal is the No. 11 quarterback by On3’s industry rankings. Rivals has him ninth at the position and ESPN seventh.

He is, therefore, clearly seen as being a level below Curtis, who is the big fish that Georgia is desperate to land. But they are obviously putting a lot of effort in attempt to sway O’Neal away from the Sooners.

Should the Bulldogs succeed, they’ll have an exciting future at the quarterback position regardless of whether they secure Curtis’ commitment.

The Georgia Bulldogs football program is in turmoil as sophomore quarterback Gunner Stockton has been suspended indefinitely, leaving fans devastated and confused. The news broke early Sunday morning, sending shockwaves through the Bulldogs’ loyal fan base, who were already preparing for an intense offseason.

Stockton, a highly touted recruit, had been vying for the starting quarterback role after the departure of Stetson Bennett. His promising performances during the previous season and spring camp had made him a fan favorite, and many had high hopes for his future under center.

The reason for Stockton’s suspension remains undisclosed, and university officials have been tight-lipped regarding the specifics. Sources close to the team, however, suggest that the suspension could be related to a violation of team rules, though nothing has been confirmed at this time. The lack of clarity has only added to the frustration and worry among Georgia fans, who are left wondering if Stockton’s suspension will have long-term implications for the team’s 2025 season.

As the Bulldogs work to navigate this setback, questions loom over who will fill the void at quarterback. The team has other options, but none carry the same promise as Stockton, who was expected to lead the team into a new era.

In the meantime, fans have taken to social media, expressing their disappointment and hoping for a quick resolution to the situation. “We want him back,” many fans have posted in support of the young quarterback, showing just how much faith they had in his potential to lead Georgia to another national championship.

As the situation continues to unfold, Georgia fans will be watching closely, hoping for a positive outcome for both Stockton and the team.

In a remarkable display of generosity and commitment to gender equality in sports, University of Georgia wide receiver Nitro Tuggle has pledged to donate $1 million of his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings to support the Bulldogs women’s sports programs. This substantial contribution coincides with International Women’s Day, underscoring Tuggle’s dedication to empowering female athletes.

Nitro Tuggle, a four-star recruit from NorthWood High School in Indiana, joined the Georgia Bulldogs as part of their 2023 recruiting class. Throughout his freshman year, Tuggle made six appearances, recording three receptions for 34 yards. In December 2024, he announced his decision to withdraw from the NCAA Transfer Portal, expressing his intention to continue his collegiate career with the Bulldogs.

The announcement of Tuggle’s $1 million donation comes amid a broader movement within collegiate athletics, where student-athletes are increasingly leveraging NIL opportunities to benefit their communities and institutions. For instance, Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway recently made a six-figure donation to support women’s sports programs at his university, further highlighting a trend of NIL earnings being used to promote gender equity in sports.

Tuggle’s decision is particularly significant given recent legislative changes in Georgia. A new bill has been enacted that exempts NIL earnings from state income tax, effectively increasing the financial benefits for student-athletes in the state. This legislative change allows athletes like Tuggle to maximize the impact of their contributions to causes they care about.

While Tuggle’s donation is a personal initiative, it also aligns with the University of Georgia’s ongoing efforts to enhance support for women’s sports. The university has been proactive in promoting gender equity, investing in facilities, scholarships, and resources for female athletes. Tuggle’s contribution is expected to further bolster these initiatives, providing enhanced training facilities, scholarships, and support services for women’s teams.

The impact of such donations extends beyond financial support. They serve as powerful statements that challenge traditional gender norms in sports, inspiring both male and female athletes to advocate for equality and support one another. Tuggle’s actions exemplify leadership and a commitment to fostering an inclusive athletic community.

As the landscape of collegiate athletics continues to evolve with the advent of NIL opportunities, Tuggle’s donation sets a precedent for how student-athletes can use their platforms and earnings to drive positive change. It encourages a culture where success is measured not only by athletic performance but also by contributions to societal progress and equality.

In summary, Nitro Tuggle’s generous $1 million donation to the University of Georgia women’s sports programs is a testament to his character and vision. It reflects a growing trend among student-athletes to utilize NIL earnings for philanthropic purposes, particularly in promoting gender equity in sports. This initiative not only benefits the immediate recipients but also sets a transformative example for future generations of athletes.

 

Someone who will be a major target for several top programs in the 2027 class: IMG Academy (Fla.) cornerback Censere Gaylord.

The 6-foot, 160-pound 4-star prospect has seen his recruitment start to take off over the last year. The list of programs involved in what will be a high-profile recruitment is already impressive — and growing. Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Florida State, Georgia Tech and Washington are all programs that have gone to see Gaylord during the contact period earlier this year. Gaylord plans to visit Washington in the near future.

As hard as it is to believe, our break from Georgia football is nearly over.

The Georgia Bulldogs open spring practice this upcoming Tuesday with the first of 15 practices to prepare for the 2025 season. While the Bulldogs’ work during spring ball stands as the team really just getting started for the upcoming campaign, it will provide a glimpse at how the team is coming together as they prepare for the fall.

In order to gear up for spring practice, we’re rolling out our annual position preview series. We’ll take a look at all the positions on the Bulldogs’ roster with one preview per day all the way to the opening day of spring ball.

We’ll turn our attention today to the secondary, which has some proven pieces who are back for another year. Let’s dive into our familiar bullet points of what we know, what we don’t know, and what we’re waiting on this spring:

The Bulldogs have lost experienced defensive backs, but they are not without proven options for 2025.

Safeties Malaki Starks and Dan Jackson are off to the NFL, with Starks very likely to be a first-round pick in April. One-time starting cornerback Julian Humphrey transferred to Texas A&M, and reserves Justyn Rhett (Nebraska) and Jake Pope (UNLV) moved on as well.

Georgia brings back four starters in cornerback Daylen Everette — who turned down a chance to go pro — cornerback Daniel Harris, STAR Joenel Aguero, and safety KJ Bolden. The Bulldogs also added to the secondary via the transfer portal by adding Miami’s Jaden Harris, UAB’s Adrian Maddox, and USC’s Zion Branch.

The Bulldogs have a handful of up-and-coming defensive backs vying for more playing time, a group that includes senior JaCorey Thomas, redshirt sophomore Kyron Jones, sophomore Demello Jones, and redshirt freshmen Ellis Robinson IV and Ondre Evans. They also signed five defensive backs: four-star Todd Robinson, four-star Jontae Gilbert, four-star Jaylan Morgan, four-star Dominick Kelly, and four-star Rasean Dinkins. Dinkins is the only signee who has not already joined the team.

Georgia returns those four starters from last year’s secondary, but will all four hold onto those same positions?

Everette and Bolden are locks to start in 2025. I feel really good about Aguero, but could Georgia work with him at safety after he spent his first two seasons at STAR? Daniel Harris had an up-and-down run after replacing Humphrey at cornerback, but he will have to fend off Robinson, Jones, and others to start again in 2025.

It will also be interesting to see how the three transfers factor into the mix. I believe Jaden Harris has the best chance of earning a big role among them, but there are a lot of opportunities in the defensive backfield this spring. If someone strings together a strong string of practices, that might be enough to earn a starting role.

This goes across the board, but where Georgia plays some of the new arrivals — both the transfers and the freshmen — will be interesting. The Bulldogs love cross-training DBs, so it’s entirely possible that guys get looks at different positions as the staff tries to determine who fits best where. It will take spring practice for us to better understand where these DBs will likely line up come the fall.

The first viewing period is so valuable in terms of figuring out who is lined up where. That will especially be the case with the DBs, as we should get a sense of who’s working at cornerback, STAR, and safety as spring practice gets going. Some players will likely cross train, which makes following them over the course of 15 practices worthwhile.

I’ll be waiting to see where Georgia wants Aguero to line up and seeing who emerges at either the STAR position he’s vacated or the safety spot that’s still open. Daniel Harris is a returning starter at corner, so it’ll be interesting to see if he will actually be challenged there.

I’ll also see which transfers turn heads early on and how the true freshmen handle being put through the ringer for the first time.

BREAKING NEWS: Georgia Lands No. 1 RB in 2027 Class, Chooses Bulldogs Over Major Programs

The University of Georgia has just received a massive boost to its already loaded recruiting class, securing the commitment of the No. 1 running back in the 2027 recruiting class. In a highly anticipated decision, the top-ranked running back chose to commit to the Bulldogs over a number of powerhouse programs, including Missouri, Alabama, Tennessee, Auburn, Kentucky, and Ole Miss.

The announcement sent shockwaves through the college football world, with fans and analysts alike praising Georgia for securing such a coveted recruit. Known for their ability to develop elite running backs under head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have now added another dynamic playmaker to their roster, further solidifying Georgia as a top contender in both the SEC and nationally.

Why Georgia?

The running back, whose name has been closely watched by scouts for years, has all the attributes to be a future superstar at the college level. A blend of speed, power, and vision, the five-star prospect has been turning heads since his freshman year of high school. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing around 210 pounds, he’s the kind of player who can change the game with a single run. His explosive ability to break tackles and accelerate into the open field made him an extremely valuable commodity in this year’s recruiting cycle.

So, why did he choose Georgia over other prominent programs? The decision was based on several key factors, all of which favor the Bulldogs in their quest for sustained success.

First, Georgia’s running back development under coach Smart has been exceptional. Players like Zamir White, James Cook, and Kenny McIntosh have thrived under Georgia’s system, and the Bulldogs’ ability to turn out NFL-ready running backs was certainly a selling point. With the departure of key players to the NFL, Georgia has made it clear that they’re committed to maintaining a powerful rushing attack, making it an ideal place for a running back to showcase their talents.

The Bulldogs’ strong recruiting culture also played a significant role in the decision. With Kirby Smart at the helm, Georgia has developed a reputation for not only producing NFL talent but also fostering a family atmosphere where athletes feel supported both on and off the field. This environment, combined with Georgia’s state-of-the-art facilities and passionate fanbase, made Athens an easy choice for the No. 1 RB.

A Huge Win for Georgia’s Recruiting Efforts

This commitment is not just a major win for Georgia in terms of talent but also for the larger context of their recruiting strategy. The Bulldogs continue to establish themselves as a recruiting juggernaut, particularly in the talent-rich state of Georgia, where they’ve consistently out-recruited most of their SEC rivals.

Georgia’s recruitment of this top-tier running back adds another layer of excitement to their already impressive 2027 class, which is shaping up to be one of the best in the country. With the ongoing success of their recent seasons, including a national championship win and back-to-back SEC titles, Smart and his staff have cultivated an environment where elite recruits want to play.

What’s Next?

For the Bulldogs, this commitment is just another step in continuing their dynasty in college football. With the 2027 season still a few years away, fans are already looking forward to seeing this new star in action, joining a long line of impressive running backs who have made a significant impact in Athens.

Georgia’s recruiting class continues to evolve, and with the addition of the No. 1 RB in the 2027 class, they have once again proven their place at the top of the college football recruiting world.

Go Dawgs!

Breaking News: Dawn Staley Crowned 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year with a Jaw-Dropping $2 Million Award

In a groundbreaking achievement that has sent shockwaves throughout the world of college basketball, Dawn Staley, the highly respected head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, has just been named the 2025 Naismith College Coach of the Year. Along with this prestigious honor, Staley is set to walk away with an unprecedented prize of $2 million—making it one of the most lucrative awards in the history of college basketball coaching.

Staley’s win underscores her incredible leadership, skill, and unwavering dedication to both the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team and the sport as a whole. Under her guidance, the Gamecocks have become a dominant force in collegiate women’s basketball, consistently proving themselves as one of the nation’s top teams.

Her rise to the top of the coaching world has been a remarkable journey. Since taking the reins of the South Carolina program in 2008, Staley has transformed the team into a perennial powerhouse. The Gamecocks have been a mainstay in the NCAA Tournament, securing multiple Final Four appearances and national titles under her leadership. Staley’s ability to recruit top-tier talent, along with her innovative coaching strategies, has made her a beacon of success for aspiring women’s basketball coaches.

This honor, however, is not just a recognition of Staley’s impressive win-loss record. The 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year award celebrates the holistic impact that Staley has had on her players, her program, and the sport itself. Her influence extends far beyond just the X’s and O’s of basketball. Staley has been an advocate for greater visibility and recognition for women’s sports, consistently pushing for gender equality and ensuring that her players are provided with the best resources and opportunities to succeed both on and off the court.

Staley’s leadership also shines through in her ability to foster a winning culture built on trust, resilience, and a deep sense of community. Her players have repeatedly praised her for her mentorship and dedication to their growth as both athletes and individuals. It’s no surprise, then, that her coaching style has earned her the respect of her peers, players, and basketball enthusiasts nationwide.

This year’s award marks another milestone in a series of accolades for Staley, who has already garnered numerous national championships, conference titles, and other individual coaching honors. Yet, her achievement of being named the Naismith Coach of the Year adds yet another feather to her cap and solidifies her place among the elite coaches in college basketball history.

The $2 million reward, which comes with the award, is a testament to the increasing value placed on women’s sports and the pivotal role of female coaches in driving the success of collegiate athletics. This significant monetary recognition reflects the growing recognition of women’s basketball as a serious, competitive force within the broader basketball landscape.

In response to receiving the prestigious honor, Staley expressed her gratitude, noting that the award is a reflection of the hard work and commitment of her entire team and staff. “I am truly humbled by this recognition. This is not just about me, but about all the amazing players, assistants, and supporters who have helped make South Carolina women’s basketball what it is today,” said Staley in a statement following the announcement.

As the Gamecocks continue to dominate the women’s basketball scene under Staley’s leadership, one thing is clear: the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year Award is just another chapter in what is shaping up to be one of the most impressive coaching careers in the history of the sport.

Breaking News: Top-Ranked RB Jaydon Blue Decommits from Texas Longhorns, Commits to Ohio State

In a stunning turn of events, five-star running back Jaydon Blue has decommitted from the Texas Longhorns and officially flipped his commitment to Ohio State. This move shakes up the recruiting world, as Blue had long been considered a cornerstone recruit for Texas, a program that’s known for developing some of the nation’s best talent at the running back position. However, despite heavy competition from programs like Auburn, Alabama, and the defending national champions, the Georgia Bulldogs, Blue ultimately chose the Buckeyes for his future collegiate home.

Blue, a standout from Klein Cain High School in Texas, is widely regarded as the top running back in the 2025 recruiting class. His combination of speed, agility, and vision on the field has made him a highly coveted prospect by virtually every major program in the country. Blue had initially committed to Texas, marking a major recruiting victory for the Longhorns as they look to build a powerhouse team under head coach Steve Sarkisian. However, in a surprising and unexpected turn of events, Blue announced his decommitment on social media today, leaving fans and analysts alike scrambling to understand what led to the change.

While Blue’s initial commitment to Texas was seen as a sign of loyalty to his home state and the Longhorns’ program, Ohio State’s relentless pursuit and strong recruitment efforts ultimately won him over. The Buckeyes, led by head coach Ryan Day, have become a juggernaut in college football, consistently competing for national championships and producing NFL-caliber talent. Ohio State’s high-powered offense and track record of developing running backs may have been significant factors in Blue’s decision to flip his commitment.

What makes this flip particularly impactful is the competition Ohio State was up against. Alabama, with its storied program and dominance in recruiting, was considered a major contender for Blue’s services. Under head coach Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide is a consistent powerhouse, and their pursuit of Blue made them a key player in his recruitment. Likewise, Auburn and Georgia, both programs with a rich history of success, were also in the mix and vying for Blue’s signature. But it was Ohio State’s combination of a high-profile offense and the opportunity to play under Day’s innovative system that ultimately proved too enticing for Blue to resist.

For the Longhorns, this is a major blow to their 2025 recruiting class. Blue’s decommitment leaves a significant gap at the running back position, and Texas will now have to work quickly to secure another top-tier running back prospect to fill that void. While Blue’s departure is certainly a setback, Texas will continue to be a contender for the best recruits in the country, and their future remains bright.

For Ohio State, Blue’s commitment is a huge win and further solidifies their place as one of the top programs in the country. With Blue on board, the Buckeyes are poised to continue their dominance in the Big Ten and beyond, adding another elite piece to their already impressive recruiting class.

As Jaydon Blue officially joins Ohio State, college football fans are eagerly anticipating his impact on the Buckeyes’ future and watching the ripple effects of this major recruiting shift unfold.

As college football prepares for the 2025 season, early Heisman Trophy contenders are beginning to emerge, with players from several top-tier programs making their mark. Leading the charge is Georgia’s dynamic running back, who stands as the frontrunner for the prestigious award. His all-around performance in 2024, including explosive runs, consistent yardage, and crucial contributions in high-pressure games, has earned him early Heisman buzz.

However, he’s not the only one who’s turning heads. Notre Dame’s rising star, running back Jeremiyah Love, has also seen his stock soar. Love’s impressive freshman season, highlighted by his vision, agility, and ability to break off big runs, has propelled him into the Heisman conversation. His performances in key matchups, particularly against strong defenses, have showcased his potential to carry the Fighting Irish to new heights.

Alongside Love is Texas’ quarterback, Arch Manning, who continues to develop into one of the country’s top young quarterbacks. As the heir to the Manning football legacy, Manning’s debut season was promising, showing flashes of brilliance as he navigated tough defenses in the Big 12. His arm strength, poise, and football IQ make him a prime candidate for a Heisman run in the coming years, and many believe the 2025 season could be his breakout year. If Manning can lead Texas to a playoff appearance and consistently perform at a high level, he could be a major contender for the award.

South Carolina’s quarterback LaNorris Sellers is another player to watch closely. Sellers’ strong arm, ability to make plays outside of the pocket, and leadership have made him a key figure in the Gamecocks’ offense. As the 2025 season draws near, Sellers will look to build on his breakout moments from 2024 and lead South Carolina to the upper echelons of the SEC. With the right development and consistency, Sellers has the potential to be in the Heisman conversation.

Finally, Alabama’s wide receiver Ryan Williams rounds out this early list of Heisman nominees. Williams is one of the most electrifying talents in the country, capable of changing the course of a game with a single catch. His speed, route-running, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. With Alabama’s offense poised for another title run, Williams will be crucial to their success, and if he can put up monster numbers, he will undoubtedly find himself in Heisman discussions.

The 2025 season promises to be an exciting one with a wealth of talent vying for the Heisman Trophy. Georgia’s top running back leads the pack, but challengers like Love, Manning, Sellers, and Williams are set to make their presence felt. As the season progresses, these players will look to showcase their abilities, making the 2025 Heisman race one of the most anticipated in recent memory.

 

BREAKING: Georgia Bulldogs Secure Top Five-Star RB, Arguably the Greatest the SEC Has Ever Seen

In a monumental development for college football, the Georgia Bulldogs have secured one of the most highly coveted recruits in recent memory, five-star running back [Name of RB]. With this commitment, Georgia continues to strengthen its already potent roster, further asserting itself as a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and beyond.

At 6’1″ and 220 pounds, [Name of RB] is a physical specimen, combining elite size, speed, and vision that is rare even among top-tier prospects. His skill set has been compared to some of the greatest to ever grace the gridiron, and many analysts are already calling him “the greatest running back the SEC has ever seen” — a bold statement, but one that seems warranted given his extraordinary talents.

The recruitment of [Name of RB] has been a rollercoaster for many months, with programs like Alabama, LSU, and Tennessee all vying for his services. However, it was the Bulldogs, led by head coach Kirby Smart, who ultimately won out. Smart’s program has rapidly become one of the most dominant forces in college football, with a focus on building a well-rounded team, and the addition of [Name of RB] only bolsters Georgia’s already impressive offensive depth.

Unmatched Talent and Vision

What sets [Name of RB] apart from other running backs in this recruiting class is his unique blend of power and finesse. He possesses the rare ability to break tackles with his strength, while also showcasing incredible lateral quickness that allows him to glide past defenders in open space. His vision is often described as “next-level,” with an ability to read blocks and make split-second decisions that put him in a position to make huge gains on the ground.

On top of that, his top-end speed is simply jaw-dropping. Despite his size, he has the speed to outrun defenders, making him a dual threat in both the running and receiving game. This versatility is a key asset in today’s game, where offensive schemes are becoming more creative and spread out, and [Name of RB] fits perfectly into that mold.

Georgia’s Growing Legacy

Georgia’s success in landing [Name of RB] is just the latest chapter in what has been an incredibly successful recruiting run under Kirby Smart. The Bulldogs have already claimed back-to-back national championships and have solidified themselves as the team to beat in the SEC. By adding one of the most dynamic running backs to ever play high school football, they now have an even greater chance of continuing their dominance for years to come.

Furthermore, Georgia’s offense is expected to revolve around a power-running game, with the offensive line being one of the most formidable in college football. Having a generational talent like [Name of RB] in the backfield means that Georgia will not only have a significant edge in the trenches but will also have a game-changer capable of putting up record-breaking numbers.

A Bright Future Ahead

For Georgia fans, the commitment of [Name of RB] signals a new era of dominance in college football. The running back’s arrival, combined with Georgia’s existing roster and coaching staff, is likely to create a formidable juggernaut that will be difficult for any team in the SEC, or the nation, to contend with. With his combination of skill, athleticism, and football IQ, [Name of RB] is primed to leave a lasting legacy in Athens, and if all goes as expected, he could go down as one of the greatest running backs in SEC history.

The SEC, and college football in general, are on notice — the Georgia Bulldogs have added yet another piece that could change the course of history.