Cody Kessler returns to efficient form

USC quarterback Cody Kessler began preparation for Saturday’s game at California without a streak of turnovers weighing on him.

Kessler, who had two passes intercepted in losses against Washington and Notre Dame, did not commit a turnover while leading the Trojans to a 42-24 victory over previously unbeaten Utah last Saturday.

“I got the ball where it needed to go,” he said Tuesday after practice.

Kessler completed 21 of 28 passes for 264 yards and a touchdown, with no interceptions. He scored on a fourth-down sneak in the third quarter and connected with receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster for a 25-yard touchdown in the fourth.

“One of the things that really stood out to me in that [Utah] game was his poise,” interim coach Clay Helton said. “And that’s what you want from a fifth-year senior, especially down the stretch.”

Kessler has passed for 18 touchdowns, with five interceptions.

Twitter: @LATimesklein