Georgia Reloads for Another Run: Gunner Stockton and Zachariah Branch Headline Bulldogs’ Quest

By Jason Bolton June 07, 2025 13:03

The Georgia Bulldogs, perennial powerhouses in college football, are gearing up for another championship run in 2025. After narrowly missing out on the national title last season, head coach Kirby Smart’s squad has retooled and reloaded, with quarterback Gunner Stockton and transfer wide receiver Zachariah Branch emerging as the faces of a new era in Athens.

A New-Look Offense with Familiar Ambition

Georgia’s offense will have a fresh look this fall, but the expectations remain as high as ever. Gunner Stockton, the redshirt junior quarterback, steps into the starting role after patiently waiting behind Carson Beck. Stockton, a former four-star recruit from Rabun County, Georgia, has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his poise and arm talent.

“Gunner’s got all the tools you want in a leader,” said head coach Kirby Smart during spring practice. “He’s patient, he’s tough, and he’s earned the respect of this locker room. We’re excited to see him take the reins.”

Stockton’s ability to extend plays and his accuracy on deep throws have drawn comparisons to some of Georgia’s best signal-callers. In limited action last season, he completed 68% of his passes for 412 yards and 5 touchdowns, with zero interceptions—a small but promising sample size that has fans eager for more.

Zachariah Branch: The Game-Changer Arrives

Perhaps the most electrifying addition to the Bulldogs’ roster is Zachariah Branch, the dynamic wide receiver who transferred from USC. Branch, a former five-star recruit and one of the fastest players in college football, brings a new dimension to Georgia’s offense. Last season at USC, Branch racked up 1,012 all-purpose yards, including 7 receiving touchdowns and 2 kick return scores, earning All-Pac-12 honors as a true sophomore.

“Zachariah is a difference-maker every time he touches the ball,” said offensive coordinator Mike Bobo. “He’s got world-class speed, but it’s his work ethic and football IQ that set him apart. He’s going to open things up for everyone on this offense.”

With Branch stretching defenses and Stockton delivering the ball, Georgia’s passing game could be the most explosive it’s been in years.

Reloaded Defense Still Among Nation’s Best

While much of the attention is on the offense, Georgia’s defense remains elite. The Bulldogs finished last season ranked third nationally in total defense, allowing just 279 yards per game and surrendering only 16.4 points per contest. Standouts like linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. and safety Malaki Starks return to anchor a unit that prides itself on physicality and discipline.

“Defense wins championships, and that’s still our mindset,” said Mondon Jr. “We lost some great players to the draft, but the standard here doesn’t change. We expect to be the best.”

Championship Expectations in Athens

Georgia’s combination of veteran leadership, blue-chip talent, and championship experience makes them a favorite in the SEC and a leading contender for the College Football Playoff. The Bulldogs have won 46 of their last 50 games under Kirby Smart, including two national titles, and show no signs of slowing down.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes are on Gunner Stockton and Zachariah Branch to see if they can lead Georgia back to the top. With a reloaded roster and unshakable confidence, the Bulldogs’ quest for another championship is very much alive.