Matt Leinart says USC’s Cody Kessler is ‘very underrated’

What must USC quarterback Cody Kessler do to attract more national attention?

Win more games, Hesiman Trophy winner Matt Leinart said.

The Trojans are 7-3.

“Losses hurt, it doesn’t matter what team you’re on,” said Leinart, who lost only two games in three seasons as USC’s starting quarterback. “You’ve got to win games, especially as a quarterback.”

Kessler has passed for 29 touchdowns, with three interceptions.

He has completed 70% of his passes.

Leinart, the 2004 Heisman winner, is a college football analyst for Fox Sports. Kessler was “very underrated,” he said.

“He’s a couple plays away from being a top-10 team and a Heisman candidate in my eyes,” said Leinart, adding that Kessler should be a front-runner for the prestigious award next season.

“His numbers are terrific, I think he’s a great leader and he’s still only a junior,” Leinart said. “He still has another year left, which is pretty scary.”

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