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Gronowski Earns Shrine Bowl MVP, Augie Coach Schilling Leads Resurgence
SDSU QB shines in all-star game, Augustana basketball surging under second-year coach
Jan. 28, 2026 at 7:15pm
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Former South Dakota State and Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski was named MVP of the East-West Shrine Bowl after leading two scoring drives, making several impressive plays, and throwing a key block for his running back. Meanwhile, Augustana head coach Cody Schilling has his team surging in his second year, led by standout guard Tameron Ferguson and a strong recruiting class.
Why it matters
Gronowski's performance in the Shrine Bowl could boost his NFL Draft stock, while Schilling's success at his alma mater Augustana shows the program is on the upswing after a tough first season for the new coach.
The details
Gronowski, the 2023 FCS Walter Payton Award winner, played just over a quarter in the Shrine Bowl but made the most of his time. He led two scoring drives, threw some accurate downfield passes, eluded defenders for an 18-yard scramble, and even threw a vicious block for his running back on a touchdown. This strong showing could help improve Gronowski's NFL Draft prospects after a somewhat uneven season at Iowa. On the basketball side, Schilling has Augustana at 12-7 overall and 10-4 in the Northern Sun conference in his second year as head coach. The Vikings have won four straight road games and are led by likely All-NSIC first teamer Tameron Ferguson, who is among the conference leaders in scoring. Schilling has also gotten key contributions from in-state recruits like Mitchell's Caden Hinker and Marcus Talley.
- Gronowski played in the East-West Shrine Bowl on Tuesday, January 24, 2026.
- Augustana hosts Bemidji State on Friday, January 27, 2026 and Minnesota-Duluth on Saturday, January 28, 2026.
The players
Mark Gronowski
The former South Dakota State and Iowa quarterback who was named MVP of the East-West Shrine Bowl after a strong performance showcasing his talents for NFL scouts.
Cody Schilling
The head coach of the Augustana Vikings basketball team, who is in his second year leading his alma mater and has the team surging with a 12-7 record and 10-4 mark in conference play.
Tameron Ferguson
The standout guard for Augustana who is likely to earn All-NSIC first team honors, currently ranking near the top of several offensive categories in the conference.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
Gronowski's strong performance in the Shrine Bowl could boost his NFL Draft stock, while Schilling has Augustana basketball trending in the right direction in his second season as head coach of his alma mater.
