Is Carson Beck playing in Sugar Bowl? Georgia Bulldogs quarterback’s availability for CFP quarterfinals explored

Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Carson Beck is set to miss the College Football Playoff quarterfinals following an injury to his right elbow during the SEC Championship Game.

On3’s Pete Nakos initially reported that Beck is not expected to play in Georgia's Sugar Bowl matchup on January 1. Several reports suggest that he will also miss the CFP quarterfinals, as the Bulldogs are scheduled to face the winner of Notre Dame. Still, Beck's absence leaves Georgia without its starting quarterback in this crucial game.

According to On3 DawgsHQ, the Georgia QB has not attended practice since the team resumed workouts last week. He missed the entire second half of the SEC title game against Texas, only returning for the game’s final play after backup Gunner Stockton suffered a big hit.

In that brief appearance, Carson Beck handed the ball off to Trevor Etienne, who scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime.

How was Carson Beck injured?

Beck sustained his injury on Dec. 8 when he attempted a Hail Mary late in the first half of the SEC Championship game, with Georgia trailing 3-6. A Texas pass rusher hit him as he tried to buy time to launch the throw, causing his arm to twist awkwardly.

He lay on the field for several minutes before walking off under his power, his right arm hanging by his side. In the second half, the QB returned to the sidelines with ice on his elbow and shoulder.

In Beck's absence, Gunner Stockton has been taking first-team reps and has shown promise, leading the Bulldogs to scores on four out of six drives during practice sessions.

Coach Kirby Smart on Carson Beck’s status for the CFP

Kirby Smart provided an update on Carson Beck’s situation during ESPN's "College GameDay." He explained that Beck and his family traveled to Jacksonville, Florida, to explore the best recovery options.

"He and his family went down to Jacksonville (Fla.) with, kind of, his team and staff and really people in his family, (who are) trying to pursue the best options to move forward," Smart said. "But we’ve talked to him, we’ve communicated with him and we’re hoping for the best."

Beck’s 2024 season and career highlights

Carson Beck has been a key player for the Georgia Bulldogs, starting 27 games over the last two seasons. In 2024, he amassed 3,485 passing yards, helping Georgia secure an 11-2 record and their second SEC title since 2022.

Across his career, Beck has thrown for 7,912 yards and 58 touchdowns, cementing himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Without him, Georgia faces a key challenge entering the Sugar Bowl.