It was a picture-perfect spring Saturday as the Bulldogs returned to their beloved Sanford Stadium. It felt like football season all over again–campus buzzed with Georgia fans, young and old, as the mouthwatering scent of hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill filled the air. Tailgate speakers blasted Georgia football classics like The Who’s Baba O’Riley, adding to the electric atmosphere.
The return of G-Day was a success not only for Bulldog fans, but for the team itself. Familiar faces took the field alongside newcomers, eager to make their mark. The Red and Black teams brought the energy for the annual scrimmage, with the Red team coming out on top, 34-17.
Georgia fans were especially excited to cheer on homegrown quarterback Gunner Stockton, along with newcomers Ryan Puglisi and Colter Ginn. The quarterback battle put all three to the test, but it was Stockton who led the Red team to victory.
Stockton wrapped up the day with 309 passing yards and two touchdowns. He connected on several big plays, including a 26-yard pass to tight end Lawson Luckie in the first half and back-to-back throws to wide receiver Sacovie White for gains of 24 and 23 yards–the latter resulting in the final touchdown of the game.
Puglisi made a strong showing as well. Starting for the Black team, he threw for 224 yards and two touchdowns. One of the strongest plays of the day came when he found wide receiver CJ Wiley for a 35-yard gain on a one-handed catch that brought the crowd to its feet.
Backup quarterback Colter Ginn also saw action, connecting twice with London Humphreys–including a 50-yard gain and a touchdown in the third quarter.
Saturday was the first glimpse at transfers Zachariah and Zion Branch Between the Hedges after transferring from USC this spring. Stockton connected with junior wide receiver Zachariah for a 36-yard gain while redshirt junior safety Zion got significant reps on the defensive side.
It was a big day for Georgia’s wide receivers, who showed off their progress. Humphreys totaled four catches for 77 yards and two touchdowns for the Black team. Colbie Young made his return to the field, catching a screen pass from Stockton on the very first play from scrimmage. Freshman CJ Wiley also made an impression during his time on the field.
More than just a scrimmage, G-Day is a cherished tradition for the Georgia faithful. From kids in oversized jerseys and cheerleading outfits to alumni decked head-to-toe in red and black, Sanford Stadium was filled with energy and pride.
While programs like Texas and Ohio State opted out of spring games this year, Athens was grateful to see G-Day return in full force.
Head coach Kirby Smart emphasized the importance of the tradition, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with it.
“It’s a great tradition–it’s what our team needs and what Athens needs,” Smart said. “It has more to do with my team, the health of my team and the number of players in college football. If we don’t have enough numbers, we won’t be able to have the game.”