Jaxson Dart's father disputes report son was limited in practice
As the Egg Bowl approaches there has been some uncertainty as to the status of Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart.
On Monday night, ESPN’s Chris Low reported that Dart was banged up in last week’s contest against UL-Monroe and did not practice on Monday night, leaving his status up in the air for Thursday’s game.
On Tuesday, Dart’s father Brandon disputed that report, tweeting the following:
“That’s weird! I was at practice and can confirm Jaxson taking his regular reps. Carry on, there is no need to wait!”
Dart’s availability will obviously be a big factor in the annual Egg Bowl on Thursday night. He has been the team’s starter throughout the season, despite the fact that Ole Miss landed Oklahoma State veteran Spencer Sanders via the transfer portal this offseason.
A junior quarterback, Jaxson Dart has thrown for 2,889 yards with 19 touchdowns against just five interceptions so far this season. He has also run for 347 yards and seven touchdowns.
Ole Miss preparing for Will Rogers at quarterback
Meanwhile, the quarterback situation on the other side also has some question marks. After missing more than a month due to injury, Mississippi State quarterback Will Rogers returned to action last week against Southern Miss.
He wasn’t his normal sharp self, finishing 12-of-27 passing for 144 yards with two touchdowns.
How close he’ll be to 100% could be a key factor in the huge rivalry game.
“We know the player that he is – how he has pulled out games before, thrown for huge numbers in games,” Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin said. “I’m sure him getting back and having a game under his belt last week probably will help him.”
During his career, Rogers has thrown for 12,108 yards with 94 touchdowns and 28 interceptions. He’s one of the most prolific passers in the SEC and the country.
The stakes for Jaxson Dart and Ole Miss will be high in the regular-season finale; the program could potentially qualify for a New Year’s Six bowl with a win.
Mississippi State and Ole Miss will meet at 7:30 p.m. ET on Thanksgiving with a national broadcast on ESPN.