Jaxson Dart Makes History as First Ole Miss QB to Be Named Coaches All-SEC First Team Since 2003
In a season full of remarkable performances, one stood out not just for its individual brilliance but for its significance in Ole Miss football history. Quarterback Jaxson Dart has made waves by becoming the first Ole Miss signal-caller to be named to the Coaches All-SEC First Team since 2003. This achievement marks a milestone for the Rebels’ program and solidifies Dart’s place as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks to don the red and blue in recent memory.
A Historic Achievement for Ole Miss Football
For Ole Miss fans and the Rebel football program, Dart’s recognition is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a reminder of how far the program has come under head coach Lane Kiffin’s leadership. The fact that Dart is the first quarterback to earn a spot on the prestigious Coaches All-SEC First Team since 2003 is a testament to the evolution of Ole Miss football and Kiffin’s ability to attract and develop top-tier talent.
Ole Miss has had some standout quarterbacks in its history—names like Eli Manning and Chad Kelly come to mind—but Dart’s performance in 2023 elevated him to a different level of recognition. The SEC, widely considered the most competitive conference in college football, is home to some of the best quarterbacks in the country. For Dart to earn this recognition, especially as a transfer who arrived at Ole Miss just a year ago, speaks volumes about his development and his ability to thrive in one of the toughest football environments.
The Journey to the Top: Dart’s Path to Success
Jaxson Dart’s rise to the Coaches All-SEC First Team was far from a guarantee. After transferring from USC in 2022, Dart faced significant expectations as he took over the starting quarterback role for the Rebels. While many saw potential in Dart, the pressure of replacing Matt Corral—the 2021 SEC Offensive Player of the Year—was considerable. In his first season as a Rebel, Dart showed flashes of brilliance, but there were also growing pains.
However, 2023 has been a breakout year for Dart. He has grown tremendously as both a player and a leader, showing not only improved accuracy and decision-making but also a renewed sense of confidence in the pocket. Under Kiffin’s tutelage, Dart’s development has been nothing short of impressive. He’s become a more efficient passer, throwing for over 3,000 yards, with 25 touchdowns and only 8 interceptions, while also showcasing his ability to make plays with his legs.
Dart’s completion percentage has steadily increased, and he’s consistently put the team in positions to succeed. His leadership has been a critical factor in the Rebels’ success this season, as he’s commanded an offense that ranks among the best in the SEC. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver accurate passes downfield has been key to Ole Miss’ potent offensive attack.
The 2023 Season: A Standout Year for Dart
While the entire Ole Miss team has benefited from a strong season, Dart’s play at quarterback has been the driving force behind much of the Rebels’ success. As the leader of the offense, he’s had to face some of the toughest defenses in college football, yet he has excelled in high-pressure situations. Dart’s ability to perform in clutch moments has been critical to the team’s success, with numerous game-winning drives and crucial throws that have kept the Rebels competitive in a stacked SEC.
One of Dart’s defining characteristics this season has been his poise in the pocket. In the past, he might have been prone to forcing passes or making decisions too quickly, but in 2023, Dart has matured. His patience has allowed him to scan the field and make smarter decisions, even under pressure. This is evident in his improved touchdown-to-interception ratio, which has been among the best in the SEC.
His ability to throw the deep ball, in particular, has helped set the tone for the Rebels’ high-octane offense. Dart’s arm strength and accuracy on long passes have allowed Ole Miss to stretch defenses, opening up the field for the running game and shorter routes. This versatility has been key for the Rebels’ offensive scheme, which has seen Dart connect with a number of different receivers, from standout wideouts to tight ends and running backs.
What has truly set Dart apart this season, however, is his ability to stay calm when things get tough. Whether in a tight game against a rival or a high-stakes matchup against a ranked opponent, Dart has never appeared rattled. His ability to stay composed and lead his team through adversity has made him the kind of quarterback that every coach dreams of having.
A Reward for Consistency and Improvement
Dart’s selection to the Coaches All-SEC First Team is a reflection of his consistency and improvement throughout the season. There are plenty of quarterbacks in the SEC with impressive physical tools, but Dart’s ability to execute week in and week out has made him one of the top players in the conference. His performance has been crucial not only for Ole Miss but for the SEC as a whole, as it is filled with talented quarterbacks who have made their mark on college football.
Throughout the season, Dart has made a habit of throwing for multiple touchdowns in key games, and his ability to spread the ball around has kept defenses on their heels. But it’s not just his arm that has earned him this recognition—Dart’s leadership, maturity, and decision-making under pressure are what have elevated him to this elite status. He’s proven himself as a top-tier SEC quarterback capable of competing with the very best in the league.
What This Means for Ole Miss
Dart’s recognition as a Coaches All-SEC First Team quarterback is a significant moment for Ole Miss football. It validates the Rebels’ decision to make him their starting quarterback and serves as a reminder of how far the program has come since Lane Kiffin’s arrival in 2020. Kiffin has transformed the Rebels into an offensive powerhouse, and Dart has been at the center of that transformation.
For Ole Miss fans, Dart’s success is a symbol of the program’s growing national relevance. The Rebels have made a name for themselves as one of the most explosive offensive teams in the country, and with Dart under center, they have the potential to continue building upon that legacy. His success is also a testament to Kiffin’s ability to develop quarterbacks and bring out the best in his players.
Beyond individual accolades, Dart’s selection to the Coaches All-SEC First Team is an indication that Ole Miss is competing at the highest level of college football. The Rebels are no longer just a team that hopes to compete in the SEC—they are a team that can legitimately challenge for championships. With Dart leading the way, Ole Miss has the chance to become a perennial contender in the conference, something that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago.
The Road Ahead for Jaxson Dart
As Dart reflects on his historic accomplishment, he will undoubtedly have his eyes set on even greater achievements. While being named to the Coaches All-SEC First Team is a monumental step in his career, Dart is not one to rest on his laurels. He knows that the ultimate goal is not individual recognition but team success. For Dart, the next challenge is leading the Rebels to an SEC title and a potential playoff berth.
With his leadership, skill set, and work ethic, Dart has shown that he is not only capable of handling the expectations of being a starting quarterback at Ole Miss but that he can thrive under pressure. As he continues to grow, Jaxson Dart has the potential to become one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in Ole Miss history, and 2023 has already been a major step in that direction.
Conclusion
Jaxson Dart’s selection to the Coaches All-SEC First Team is a momentous occasion for both the player and the Ole Miss program. Dart’s exceptional growth and leadership have earned him the recognition of being one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC, and it’s clear that his presence has been a game-changer for the Rebels. As Ole Miss continues to build on its success, Dart’s performance serves as a reminder that the future is bright for the Rebels, and with players like him leading the way, the best may be yet to come.