USC's Cody Kessler enjoys connection to Frank Gifford

USC quarterback Cody Kessler, a high school star in Bakersfield like former Trojans All-American Frank Gifford, participates in a drill Saturday under the watch of offensive coordinator Clay Helton. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)As USC quarterback Cody Kessler makes his way from the McKay Center locker room to the practice field, he walks by a gallery of plaques honoring Trojans All-Americans.

He always notices one: Frank Gifford.

"It's cool because it's the only one on there that says 'Bakersfield, California,'" Kessler said after Sunday night's practice.

Kessler, like Gifford, came to USC from Bakersfield. He was roommates with Gifford's son, Cody, a former USC walk-on receiver,…