Lane Kiffin assesses first half play of Jaxson Dart, gives credit to defense

Ole Miss did not officially name a starter for Saturday’s game after the quarterback competition throughout fall camp. Even so, Jaxson Dart was the first guy to go out there and thus far, has been successful for head coach Lane Kiffin. The Rebels lead at halftime, 21-3.

Kiffin assessed the play of Dart heading into the locker room, saying the USC transfer has played “alright.” Not turning the ball over is a positive in the eyes of the head coach but he thinks Ole Miss’ defense has been more noteworthy.

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“Well how about our defense?,” Kiffin joked. “Jaxson did alright. We haven’t turned the ball over and managed the game well. Our defense has played really well. That’s the story so far.”

Dart completed nine of 14 passes in the first half, throwing for 64 yards. Most of the offensive damage was done on the ground, specifically with the transfer running backs Ole Miss brought in this offseason.

Lane Kiffin looking for more explosive plays in passing game

As for what Kiffin wants from his team in the second half, more out of Dart and the passing game is near the top of the list. We know how excited the head coach can get from consistent explosive plays from quarterbacks. Kiffin wants to see that from Dart in the final two quarters.

“Little more consistency in the passing game,” Kiffin said. “Run for 200 yards in the first half, played some good defense. But let’s hit some explosive plays in the passing game.”

Three different Ole Miss players got into the end zone on the ground, with Zach Evans doing most of the heavy lifting. Dart has been effective when called upon but some chunk plays could be on the way in the second half.

To this point, there has not been a Luke Altmyer sighting for Ole Miss. Dart has stayed on the field throughout. Kiffin did not mention if there were plans to change.