Quarterback Cody Kessler seeks to continue consistent start

USC quarterback Cody Kessler is off to a consistent, mostly mistake-free start.

Kessler does not plan to change much heading into Saturday night’s Pac-12 Conference game against Oregon State.

“Just take what they give me on defense and not try to force anything or do too much,” Kessler said.

Through three games, the strategy has mostly worked.

Kessler has completed 71% of his passes, eight for touchdowns, with no interceptions or fumbles. He was sacked five times against Boston College, and he accepted part of the blame for not getting rid of the ball quicker.

Oregon State ranks 10th nationally in pass defense, allowing 141.7 yards a game. The Beavers have five interceptions, have not allowed a touchdown pass and rank first in passing-efficiency defense.

“They don’t make a lot of mistakes,” Kessler said. “I just have to come out and continue to protect the ball and be smart.”