In a blistering 101‑degree kickoff at Sanford Stadium, the Georgia Bulldogs showcased depth and talent, crushing Tennessee State 63‑3 in their season opener. Freshman quarterback Gunner Stockton completed 15 of 16 passes for 202 yards and three touchdowns before exiting early in the second quarter. Running back Nate Frazier added three rushing scores on just four carries, totaling 72 yards.

Key performances

Stockton’s efficient debut included a 48‑yard touchdown run on his first carry and a 14‑yard rush for his second score. He praised his teammates, saying, “We did a good job executing and everything.” Frazier, who posted 947 rushing yards last season, highlighted his own effort: “You can’t ask for a better start than that.”

Depth at quarterback

Georgia rotated four quarterbacks in the game. Backup Ryan Puglisi led two touchdown drives, including a 3‑yard run by Frazier to open the second half. Third‑string Ryan Montgomery connected on a 54‑yard pass to Jeremy Bell, while Hezekiah Millender capped a drive with an 11‑yard run by Jae Lamar.

Record‑setting opening

The 60‑point margin is the largest season‑opening victory in the Kirby Smart era, surpassing the 49‑3 win over Oregon in 2022. Georgia now stands 1‑0 in openers under Smart, continuing a tradition of dominant starts.

Game conditions and fan experience

A severe weather advisory warned of lightning within 15 miles late in the third quarter, but play continued. Heat and the advisory prompted many fans to leave after the first quarter, though the stadium remained a sellout of 93,033.

Opposing team recap

Tennessee State managed a late first‑half field goal after a 14‑play drive, but was limited to 10 rushing yards on 30 carries. Quarterback Daylin Lee completed 11 of 19 passes for 62 yards.

Looking ahead

Georgia will debut its all‑white alternate uniform at home against Western Kentucky next Saturday. Tennessee State heads to Alabama A&M for its next matchup.

Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.