ATHENS, Ga. (BCSNN) — Some bad news for Georgia as it appears Bulldogs starting quarterback Carson Beck is likely out for the College Football Playoff due to a season-ending elbow injury sustained during the SEC Championship game against Texas.

Beck, who took a hit to his throwing elbow, is dealing with a torn UCL and is currently weighing his treatment options.

With Beck sidelined, redshirt sophomore Gunner Stockton is set to make his first career start in the Sugar Bowl against either Notre Dame or Indiana on January 1st. Stockton, who stepped in during the SEC Championship game, completed 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards and an interception. Despite the limited experience, head coach Kirby Smart expressed confidence in Stockton's ability to lead the team.

"Gunner has been preparing for this moment, and we believe he's ready to step up and perform well in the Sugar Bowl," Smart said. "He's very smart, very intelligent, and he operates well within our current offense."

Stockton, a former four-star prospect from Rabun County High School, has completed 25 of 32 passes for 206 yards in three games during the regular season. Bulldogs fans are hopeful that Stockton's athleticism and intelligence will help the team secure a victory in the playoff game.

The Bulldogs will face the winner of the first-round matchup between Notre Dame and Indiana in the Sugar Bowl at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The game will air on ABC on January 1st at 8:45 p.m. ET.