STWF Sports | FRISCO, Texas | Jan. 27, 2026  — The East-West Shrine Bowl once again delivered a fitting showcase of emerging talent, competitive balance, and late-game drama, as Team West edged Team East 21–17 in a tightly contested all-star matchup that featured standout quarterback play, impactful special teams, and a finish worthy of the national stage.

The game was decided in the final moments, when Tulsa running back Dom Richardson plunged into the end zone with six seconds remaining, capping a composed late drive and sealing a dramatic victory for the West. The score punctuated a contest defined by momentum swings, field position battles, and individual performances that caught the attention of NFL scouts in attendance.

First-Half Chess Match

From the opening kick, both teams emphasized execution over flash, resulting in a measured, physical first half. Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski, suiting up for the West, set the tone early by engineering sustained drives with a combination of efficient passing and timely runs. Gronowski consistently moved the chains, showing poise in the pocket and decisiveness when lanes opened.

West’s offense benefitted from strong special teams play, particularly from Iowa wide receiver and return specialist Kaden Wetjen. Wetjen’s punt and kickoff returns repeatedly flipped field position, giving the West favorable starting spots and easing pressure on the offense. While his impact did not immediately show up in the box score, his returns directly contributed to West scoring opportunities, including their first field goal.

Team East answered behind Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels, who injected energy into the offense during the first half. Daniels led the East’s opening scoring drive, displaying his ability to create outside structure and extend plays. His leadership helped East settle in after a cautious opening stretch and provided a spark that carried into the red zone.

As defenses tightened, special teams became the difference-maker before halftime. With seconds remaining in the half, Florida kicker Trey Smack delivered one of the game’s defining moments, drilling a 57-yard field goal to push the West ahead 12–8 at the break. The kick not only highlighted Smack’s range and composure but also underscored how critical hidden-yardage situations had become.

Second-Half Adjustments and Momentum Swings

The second half mirrored the first in intensity, with both teams trading sustained drives and defensive stops. Gronowski continued to impress with his dual-threat ability, extending plays with his legs and delivering accurate throws into tight windows. His command of the offense stood out in a game where timing and decision-making were paramount.

Daniels countered by generating scoring chances for the East, using his athleticism to stress the West defense and keep drives alive. Each quarterback delivered impact plays, reinforcing why both entered the game as focal points of Shrine Bowl week.

As the game tightened late, defensive pressure increased. Wisconsin EDGE Mason Reiger emerged as a disruptive force for the West, consistently collapsing the pocket and recording multiple sacks. His relentless motor and power off the edge shifted the tone in critical moments, earning him Defensive MVP honors for his dominant performance.

Dramatic Finish

With time winding down and the East threatening, the West defense delivered one final stand. Kansas State linebacker Jackson Kuwatch came up with a critical interception, halting East’s momentum and setting the stage for the decisive final drive.

That drive belonged to Gronowski, who continued to make winning plays even without the ball. After guiding the offense into scoring position, the quarterback delivered one of the game’s most overlooked but meaningful moments — a key block on the game-winning sequence that sprung Richardson for extra yardage.

Moments later, Dom Richardson powered into the end zone with six seconds remaining, sending the West sideline into celebration and securing a 21–17 victory.

Honors and Takeaways

Gronowski was named Offensive MVP, a fitting recognition after a performance defined by accuracy, mobility, and strong leadership. His ability to manage the game, extend drives, and contribute physically reflected a complete quarterback showing.

Reiger claimed Defensive MVP, anchoring a West defense that delivered timely pressure throughout the contest.

In the end, the 101st East-West Shrine Bowl once again proved its value — a stage where preparation meets opportunity, and where one drive, one kick, or one late touchdown can define an entire afternoon.