Dec. 03--USC quarterback Cody Kessler was announced as one of 11 finalists for the Manning Award, presented to the top quarterback in college football.
Kessler, a junior, has passed for 36 touchdowns, with four interceptions. He ranks fourth nationally in passing efficiency.
Kessler passed for six touchdowns in the Trojans' 49-14 victory over Notre Dame in the regular-season finale.
Other finalists: Ohio State's J.T. Barrett, Texas Christian's Trevone Boykin, Marshall's Rakeem Cato, Colorado State's Garrett Grayson, UCLA's Brett Hundley, Oregon's Marcus Mariota, Baylor's Bryce Petty, Mississippi State's Dak Prescott, Alabama's Blake Sims and Florida State's Jameis Winston.
The Manning Award takes into account bowl performances. The winner will be announced in January after the bowl games.
USC will learn its bowl destination on Sunday.
