Cody Kessler, dominant D lead USC past Utah 19-3 for 2nd win under interim coach Ed Orgeron

Southern California safety Leon McQuay III (22) intercepts a pass to Utah wide receiver Geoff Norwood (16) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Gus Ruelas) (The Associated Press)

Southern California wide receiver Nelson Agholor dives for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Gus Ruelas) (The Associated Press)

Cody Kessler passed for 230 yards, Nelson Agholor scored the game's only touchdown on an early 30-yard reception, and Southern California's defense forced four turnovers in a 19-3 victory over Utah on Saturday.

Andre Heidari kicked four field goals for the Trojans (5-3, 2-2 Pac-12), who persevered despite a daunting injury list for their second victory in three games under interim coach Ed Orgeron.

Travis Wilson passed for just 51 yards and threw two interceptions while obviously struggling with a sprained finger for Utah (4-4, 1-4), which has followed up its stunning victory over Stanford with consecutive losses to Arizona and USC. The Utes haven't won at the Coliseum since 1916.

USC's defense was dominant, yielding just 201 yards while holding the Utes scoreless after their opening drive.