Mark Stoops evaluates Georgia QB Carson Beck

Mark Stoops isn’t Georgia quarterback Carson Beck’s coach, but he can still recognize talent. On Monday, the Kentucky head coach gave props to the junior QB.

“I see a very good player that’s getting more and more comfortable every game,” Stoops said. “Heck, he’s throwing I want to say 70% completion percentage and their yards per attempt is high, as well. It’s over nine, so when you’re throwing at 70% and over nine yards a completion — he’s playing at a very good level.”

Stoops is spot-on. In five games, Beck has completed 116-of-his-161 (72.1%) pass attempts attempts for 1,497 yards and seven touchdowns while throwing just two interceptions. He is averaging 9.3 yards per pass.

For reference, Kentucky QB Devin Leary is connecting on just 57.7% of his passes for 1,129 yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. Scarier, Stoops only expects Beck to improve as the season progresses.

“He’s just getting some guys back too,” Stoops said. “He’s getting his running backs back healthy. He’s getting Ladd McConkey back now healthy, so they’re getting better and better.”

Georgia has had no shortage of injuries early this season. Nonetheless, the Bulldogs are slowly licking their wounds. Running backs Roderick Robinson (ankle) and Kendall Milton (hamstring) are expected to return sooner rather than later.

Additionally, as Stoops mentioned, Georgia returns McConkey out wide. The wide receiver turned last week after being shut down for two weeks due to a back injury. Georgia will need the extra weapons.

The challenge ahead of Carson Beck

Kentucky’s defense has been stellar this season, allowing just 297.2 yards per game, tied for the 19th-least in the country. Just last week against No. 22 Florida, the ‘Cats only allowed 313 total yards, boosting them to a 33-14 victory.

Of course, it’s difficult to move the ball when it’s not in your hands. Kentucky has squeezed nine turnovers out of opponents this season, five interceptions and four fumble recoveries. If Beck does commit a turnover, it won’t be his first time facing the adversity.

After Georgia’s tumultuous 27-20 win over Auburn on Saturday, UGA head coach Kirby Smart praised Beck’s resiliency.

“This team had not been on the road. This young man had not played in this environment,” Smart said, gesturing to Beck standing to his left. “And we tried to help them. When you turn the ball over, you help people. We just kept fighting and kept bumping. I was proud of them. When you win on the road in the SEC, I don’t care who it is or where it is, it’s hard to do.”

Watch Beck and his Bulldogs face off against Kentucky at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.