New Georgia QB Gunner Stockton presents challenge for Irish - ESPN

NEW ORLEANS — Notre Dame linebacker Jack Kiser said the Fighting Irish aren't underestimating Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton because of his inexperience heading into Wednesday's College Football Playoff quarterfinals game at the Allstate Sugar Bowl.

Stockton, a third-year sophomore, had played sparingly for the No. 2 Bulldogs until he was forced into action after starter Carson Beck injured the elbow on his throwing arm on the final play of the first half in the Dec. 7 SEC championship game.

Stockton rallied the Bulldogs back in the second half of a 22-19 overtime victory against Texas.

«He's not the veteran guy, but at the same time, he's playing at Georgia,» Kiser said. «He's their starting quarterback. He was a big-time recruit. I don't think you can underestimate this dude at all.»

Stockton is expected to make his first career start against the No. 7 Fighting Irish at Caesars Superdome on New Year's Day (8:45 p.m. ET, ESPN/ESPN+). Beck had season-ending elbow surgery on Dec. 23 and declared his intent to enter the NFL draft on Saturday.

Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart said Beck was expected to join the team in New Orleans this week.

Stockton met with the media for the first time at Monday's Sugar Bowl media day. He didn't say much, other than he was excited to finally get a chance to start at quarterback, even if the stage will be one of the biggest in the sport.

«It's awesome,» Stockton said. «I mean, it's a dream come true. I'm excited and excited for the opportunity. It's a special opportunity, and I'm enjoying it.»

Stockton has completed 25 of 32 passes for 206 yards with no touchdowns and one interception in four games this season. Most of his action came in the second half against the Longhorns, in which he