Jaxson Dart competed to be Kedon Slovis' backup quarterback his first year at USC in 2021.[7] During the annual Spring Game, Dart impressed coaches with his arm strength and mobility. On the final play of the game Dart threw a touchdown pass to fellow freshman Michael Jackson III, which included an impressive one-handed diving catch.
On September 18, Dart entered the game against Washington State in the second series of the game, replacing injured QB Kedon Slovis. USC was playing their first game after the firing of coach Clay Helton. Dart entered the game and threw an interception on his first series. Dart responded by throwing a 38-yard touchdown pass late in the first half. Dart caught fire the rest of the game. Dart displayed his gifts of improvisation and arm strength. Dart finished the day 30-for-46 for 391 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions.[8] The Trojans defeated the Cougars 42–14, in a blowout win. Dart's 391 yards set the record for most passing yards ever by a USC QB in his debut, breaking JT Daniels’ record of 282 in 2018.[9]
On November 20, Dart made his first career start against UCLA.
Ole Miss
Following the 2021 season, Lincoln Riley was hired as the head coach of USC. Amidst the rumors that Oklahoma QB Caleb Williams would follow Riley to USC, Dart entered the NCAA transfer portal.[10] He and Michael Trigg then officially enrolled at Ole Miss. He has been the primary starting quarterback for head coach Lane Kiffin.