Dawg stays: QB Beck says he’s returning to UGA

Mark Schlabach, ESPN Senior WriterDec 18, 2023, 05:00 PM ET
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- Senior college football writer
- Author of seven books on college football
- Graduate of the University of Georgia

Georgia quarterback Carson Beck, who guided the No. 6 Bulldogs to a 12-1 record in his first season as a starter, announced Monday that he’s returning for his senior season in 2024.

Beck was among the most efficient passers in the FBS this past season, after replacing quarterback Stetson Bennett, who led the Bulldogs to back-to-back CFP National Championships in 2021 and 2022. Beck completed 72.4% of his passes for 3,738 yards with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions.

“My friends and family have helped put me in a situation to have options for my future,” Beck said in a statement posted to Georgia football’s X account. “However, the NFL can wait one more year. I am returning to UGA for my senior season. We need everyone’s support in Miami to close this season out the right way!”

The Bulldogs will play No. 5 Florida State in the Dec. 30 Capital One Orange Bowl (4 p.m. ET, ESPN and ESPN App).

Beck’s decision comes after his backup, former four-star recruit Brock Vandagriff, announced that he’s transferring to Kentucky. Redshirt freshman Gunner Stockton, who attempted nine passes this season, is also expected back in 2024.

Five-star recruit Dylan Raiola of Buford High School in Georgia committed to the Bulldogs in May but on Monday told ESPN’s Pete Thamel that he instead is heading to Nebraska, which he visited this past weekend. Raiola is the No. 1 pocket passer in the 2024 ESPN 300.

Ryan Puglisi, of Avon, Connecticut, the No. 7-ranked pocket passer in the ESPN 300, has joined the team and will participate in bowl practices.