Trickett was redshirted as a freshman in 2010. As a redshirt freshman in 2011, Trickett was a backup to EJ Manuel. He made two starts during the season due to injuries to Manuel and played in nine games overall. In his first career start against Clemson, he completed 24 of 38 passes for 336 yards and three touchdowns. Overall, he completed 44 of 72 passes for 675 yards, seven touchdowns and four interceptions. As a sophomore in 2012, he appeared in eight games as Manuel's backup, completing 22 of 34 passes for 272 yards. After Manuel graduated, Trickett was expected to compete with Jameis Winston and Jacob Coker for the starting job for the 2013 season.