Quarterback Carson Beck’s availability for Georgia’s Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal is uncertain after he hurt his elbow during Saturday’s Southeastern Conference championship game against Texas.
Georgia announced on Monday that there is no set timeline for Beck’s return as he and his family consider different treatment options.
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart mentioned on Sunday that the team was waiting for the results of tests. The school did not provide further details about Beck’s injury in Monday’s update.
Beck was injured on the last play of the first half in the Bulldogs’ 22-19 overtime win over Texas on Saturday. He made a dramatic return to the field for the handoff on the game-winning play after backup quarterback Gunner Stockton had his helmet knocked off and had to leave the game for one play.
Beck’s injury was to his right (throwing) arm. Despite this, he was able to take the snap and hand off the ball to Trevor Etienne, who scored the decisive 4-yard touchdown. However, Beck could not raise his right arm afterward.
Smart shared on Sunday that Beck attended the team meeting for the College Football Playoff selection announcement.
“He was pretty somber,” Smart said. “It was a tough deal for him in terms of not being able to go out there and finish in the second half.”
Georgia also announced that punter Brett Thorson will require season-ending surgery after injuring his non-kicking leg in the Texas game.
“Carson and Brett are both fierce competitors and extremely hard workers,” Smart said in a statement released by the school. “I’m confident they will attack their rehab with the same determination they exhibit in their daily habits. We will be here to support them every step of the way.”
If Beck is unable to play in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, Stockton would likely be the starter. Stockton completed 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards with one interception against Texas.
