USC vs. Utah State Halftime Score: 14-7

Through 30 minutes, the USC defense has effectively limited Aggies quarterback Chuckie Keeton's effectiveness, leading the way to a one touchdown advantage.

The electric signal caller has been average, completing 12 of 21 passes for 113 yards and a TD. The score was the first TD allowed by USC's first-team defense all season.

Devon Kennard and George Uko both have a sack on Uko, and the defensive line has been domineering.

Torin Harris has struggled, but there wasn't much he could do on Keeton's TD pass that went his way.

The offense has looked rock solid, gaining yards at an effective clip, but critical mistakes have killed drives.

Cody Kessler found Xavier Grimble early in the quarter for a 30-yard score, giving the Trojans the lead.

Running back Tre Madden has been running well, taking 15 carries for 66 yards. Marqise Lee has reeled in 4 catches for 45 yards so far.

On a chance to score on a 2-minute drive to end the half, Kessler did not feel the pressure on his blind side. Offensive tackle Chad Wheeler was overwhelmed by Kyler Fackrell, strip-sacking Kessler and turning the ball over.

There have been a lot of penalties on both sides, each side a bit sloppy (7 for 44 for the Aggies; 5 for 38 for the Trojans).

Utah St. has the option to receive at the beginning of the second half.