The starting quarterback job in Georgia is locked in with Carson Beck, but there’s plenty of intrigue surrounding Gunner Stockton’s status on the roster. The path for Stockton to back up Beck in 2024 is there, and Stockton can make his case firm with his progress in the Georgia offense over the last two seasons. Not only is this showing important for Stockton to secure his spot as the No. 2 in Athens, but it could also give the staff confidence in what he can offer the program after Beck moves on.
Recently promoted to lieutenant, Saddler first began working with the Georgia State Patrol about 22 years ago. In 2012, he was appointed to the Georgia football security detail. Four years later, he became the supervisor.
Now, he’s tasked with protecting one of Athens’ most beloved figures — Georgia head coach Kirby Smart.
Saddler’s gameday responsibilities begin on Friday, when Georgia football participates in a bonding activity that usually consists of dinner and a movie. On the night before the game, the officers dress in their Georgia gear and get to know the different personalities on the team.
For those involved with the visiting team’s detail, such as Corporal Terrence Matthews, Friday nights are slightly different. Their main objective is to ensure the opposing team arrives safely in Athens.
Depending on the location of the visiting team, the detail will either meet at the airport or the state line to provide an escort. If something goes awry, the officers are there to assist, as was the case for one of Georgia’s most memorable home games.
“Tennessee caught a flat in the middle of the interstate when we were on our way to the hotel,” Matthews said of the Volunteers’ visit in November 2022. “And that was a challenging moment because the bus was disabled in the middle of the interstate in Atlanta at rush hour.”