Behind the Scenes of Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart’s Decision to Play in the Gator Bowl
As the 2023 college football season draws to a close, one of the most significant storylines for the Ole Miss Rebels has been the decision of their quarterback, Jaxson Dart, to suit up for the team in the 2023 Gator Bowl. This decision not only highlights Dart’s commitment to his team but also gives fans a glimpse into the complex factors that go into a player’s decision-making process regarding postseason play. With the growing trend of players opting out of bowl games to protect their draft stock, Dart’s choice to play in Jacksonville was a testament to his leadership, dedication to his teammates, and belief in the importance of finishing the season strong.
At first glance, Dart’s decision may seem simple: after all, he is the starting quarterback for one of the top programs in the SEC and is positioned to be a future NFL prospect. However, the reality is that in today’s landscape of college football, especially with the advent of NIL deals and the increasingly high stakes for professional careers, decisions about whether to participate in bowl games have become far more complicated. Many players, particularly those projected to enter the NFL Draft, are choosing to opt out of bowl games in order to avoid potential injury. This trend has been seen across the country, particularly among high-profile players who are looking to protect their future earning potential.
Dart’s decision to play in the Gator Bowl, however, came after much internal reflection and discussions with his coaches, family, and teammates. According to sources close to the Ole Miss program, Dart’s decision was driven by a deep sense of responsibility to his team. The junior quarterback had already helped lead the Rebels to a successful season, finishing with an impressive record, and had an opportunity to cap off his year with a postseason appearance. But beyond the statistics and accolades, Dart wanted to leave his mark on the program. The Gator Bowl, for him, was a chance to finish what he had started.
“From day one, we’ve been talking about finishing the season strong,” Dart said in an interview about his decision. “This team has fought so hard to get to this point, and I didn’t want to leave them hanging. I owe it to the guys who have been with me, working their tails off all year long. We’ve had a great season, and I wanted to be out there, playing with them, not just for me but for the entire team.”
While Dart’s decision was ultimately rooted in loyalty to his teammates, it was not without careful consideration. In addition to the pressure of playing in a high-profile game, Dart faced the growing chatter about his potential future in the NFL. As one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC, Dart is expected to be a sought-after prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. Many believed that opting out of the bowl game would have been the safe play—protecting himself from injury and preparing for the professional spotlight. But Dart’s strong sense of commitment to his team outweighed those concerns.
Family and coaches also played a pivotal role in the decision-making process. Dart’s family, in particular, has been a consistent source of support throughout his college career, and their input was crucial in helping him navigate the complexities of the situation. “My family has always been my foundation,” Dart shared. “They’ve been through every up and down with me. We talked a lot about what it would mean to play in the bowl game, and they were all on board. At the end of the day, they wanted me to make the decision that felt right for me. But they also understood how much this team means to me.”
Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin also played an important role in Dart’s decision, offering guidance without pressuring him to suit up for the game. Kiffin has always been known for his player-first mentality, and his relationship with Dart is a reflection of that philosophy. “Jaxson is a leader,” Kiffin remarked during a press conference. “He’s a guy who has helped take this program to new heights, and his decision to play in the Gator Bowl speaks volumes about his character. We’ve talked about it a lot, but ultimately, it was his decision. And I’m proud of him for wanting to finish what he started.”
For Dart, the Gator Bowl wasn’t just another game on the schedule—it was a chance to build his legacy and leave a lasting impression on the Ole Miss football program. The Gator Bowl also represents a key moment in Dart’s development as a quarterback. The Rebels were set to face a tough opponent, and the game would serve as an opportunity for Dart to showcase his skills on a national stage, potentially boosting his draft stock if he performed well. While many players shy away from these opportunities out of fear of injury or other uncertainties, Dart embraced the challenge.
“Playing in the Gator Bowl was never about me,” Dart said. “It was about finishing strong as a team and showing that we can compete at the highest level, no matter what. We’ve had a great season, but I want to go out there and prove that we can do even more. I’m excited for the opportunity.”
As the Gator Bowl approaches, Ole Miss fans are buzzing with excitement about seeing Dart take the field one last time for the 2023 season. Dart’s decision to play is a reminder of the importance of team loyalty and the personal growth that can come from facing challenges head-on. In a time when so many players are choosing personal interests over team commitments, Dart’s decision stands as a testament to his character and his dedication to both his teammates and the Ole Miss football program.
With his leadership on full display, Dart is set to leave a legacy that will be remembered by fans and players alike, cementing his place in the Rebels’ history as one of their most committed and respected quarterbacks.