Cassel began his college career in 2001 and spent that entire Trojan career as a backup behind Heisman Trophy winners Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart. He saw limited time in three games in the 2001 season. He made his lone collegiate start at H-back against California in 2001. Cassel was the backup for Palmer during his Heisman-winning 2002 season. He appeared in three games and completed three passes for 27 total yards. In the fall, Cassel lost the battle for the starting position to the previous third-string quarterback in Leinart. As a result of Leinart's success, Cassel spent time at tight end and wide receiver in 2003, and some special teams that year. In the 2003 season, he appeared in two games and completed 6-of-13 passes for 63 yards. In his last season with the Trojans, he was 10-of-14 for 97 yards and an interception. During his four seasons at USC, Cassel completed 20-of-33 passes for 192 yards, with no touchdowns and one interception. Cassel, a communication major at USC, was also roommates with Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu and Carson Palmer. Cassel played one season of baseball for USC in 2004, compiling an 0–1 record with 10 strikeouts and four walks. He played in eight games and started one. Cassel struck out in his only at bat in college. He also had two saves with a 9.35 ERA, and was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 36th round of the 2004 MLB Draft. Statistics Professional career New England Patriots Despite having had little chance to demonstrate his skills in actual game situations at USC, Cassel earned himself a place on several NFL teams' draft boards after working out at USC's 2005 Pro Day. One of Cassel's coaches, Norm Chow, who had left USC to become the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, had discussed signing Cassel as an undrafted free agent after the 2005 NFL Draft; Chow was surprised to learn the Patriots had drafted Cassel in the seventh round, with the 230th overall pick, ahead of more accomplished college quarterbacks such as Timmy Chang and 2003 Heisman Trophy winner Jason White. 2005 season: Rookie year Cassel began the 2005 season third on the Patriots' depth chart behind Tom Brady and Doug Flutie, after beating out two more veteran quarterbacks, Chris Redman and Rohan Davey. He saw his first regular season action in the closing minutes of the