Jaxson Dart makes debut for USC, leads USC to 45 unanswered in relief of Kedon Slovis

Update 7:05 p.m. ET Dart has led USC to 45 unanswered points in a 45-14 victory over Washington State. The freshman threw for 391 yards and four touchdowns in what turned out to be a massive victory for the Trojans. He also had 32 rushing yards. Dart did have two interceptions, but the future seems bright at the quarterback position. It’s unclear whether Slovis will return next week against Oregon State.

Update 6:45 p.m. ET Dart has settled in brilliantly, as he is 29-45 for 355 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions midway through the fourth quarter. The Trojans have scored 38 unanswered points in Pullman, and lead 38-14.

An injury to Kedon Slovis on the USC Trojans opening drive against the Washington State Cougars brought in highly-touted true freshman Jaxson Dart to make his debut for ‘SC today.

He promptly threw an interception on the opening drive after going 2-5 for 22 yards.

Slovis’s exact injury is unknown at the moment, but he appeared to wincing after a hit to the shoulder/neck region. The quarterback was taken the medical tent for further evaluation. He tapped Dart on the shoulder pads when the freshman took the field, a sign Slovis knew his day might be done. He eventually emerged from the tent, but is unlikely to get back in the game.

Dart was the No. 10 quarterback recruit in the nation for the 2021 class, according to 247 Sports. He beat out fellow freshman Miller Moss for the backup job behind Slovis and will need to show his potential in what is an otherwise disappointing season for USC.