No. 12 Georgia faced a significant setback against No. 11 Ole Miss last week, resulting in their exclusion from the current projected College Football Playoff lineup. One of the main issues plaguing Georgia has been their offense, particularly quarterback Carson Beck, who has not met expectations this season.
During the defeat to the Rebels, Georgia managed to score only 10 points, with their sole touchdown occurring on the opening drive after an interception granted them favorable field position. Over the remaining 55 minutes, the Bulldogs could only add three points while committing three turnovers. As Georgia prepares to host No. 7 Tennessee in a critical matchup this weekend, fans are speculating whether head coach Kirby Smart might replace Beck to revitalize the offense.
The Sporting News explores the likelihood of Beck retaining his starting position this week.
Will Carson Beck be benched?
Although Beck has faced difficulties recently and Georgia is presently outside the College Football Playoff race, there is no sign that Kirby Smart is considering benching him.
Kirby Smart’s remarks on the quarterback situation
When questioned about the possibility of replacing Beck, Kirby Smart expressed his confidence in the quarterback, dismissing any ideas of a change.
“Absolutely not,” Smart asserted. “We have a quarterback who is highly competent, capable, and fully understands our system, which gives us the best chance to win.” Regarding the offense’s challenges, Smart noted the need for improvement in their vertical passing and play-action strategies but also acknowledged the strong SEC defenses they’ve encountered this season.
“We’ve faced some extremely formidable defenses this year, likely more than many teams, given our schedule,” Smart stated, according to 247Sports. “When assessing SEC games—the crucial matches—there’s not as stark a contrast because we’re up against some really excellent defenses in our league.”
Carson Beck’s stats in 2024:
– Games: 9
– Completion percentage: 65.4%
– Passing yards: 2,488
– Touchdowns: 17
– Interceptions: 12
After leading the SEC in completions and passing yards last season, Beck has experienced a downturn this year, currently leading the conference in interceptions through 11 weeks. In his last four games, he has thrown five touchdowns but has also been intercepted nine times, although the Bulldogs hold a 3-1 record in those matches.
Once considered a potential Heisman Trophy candidate, Beck’s performance has raised questions about his future as the starter. Nonetheless, it appears Smart intends to allow him the chance to rectify his season.
Georgia QB depth chart:
– No. 1: Carson Beck
– No. 2: Gunner Stockton
– No. 3: Ryan Puglisi
– No. 4: Jaden Rashada
Beck has remained the starting quarterback since last season, and according to Smart, that will continue despite the offensive struggles. Behind Beck is Stockton, a redshirt sophomore who has appeared in two games this season, completing 10 of 12 passes for 90 yards during mop-up duty. Puglisi is a true freshman yet to see game action, while Rashada is a transfer from Arizona State with only three games of collegiate experience.
