The National Bowl Game is an American independently operated post-season college football all-star game played annually since 2011, most often in December. The game showcases NFL draft prospects of those collegiate players who have completed their eligibility in NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, and the NAIA. Since 2014, the game has been played as a doubleheader with the FCS Bowl.
The game has been organized by East Preps LLC, who operate the game independently.[2] As of 2023, the game is branded as the College Football Alumni Association (CFBALL) National Bowl.[4]
The game and an associated scouting combine provide opportunity for players from smaller colleges to get exposure with scouts from various professional leagues, including the NFL and CFL.[5] Organizers report that 26 players from the December 2015 games (National Bowl Game and FCS Bowl) reached the NFL in some capacity.[6] At the December 2016 game, 14 NFL teams were represented, with over 30 scouts in attendance.[3]
Note: It appears there have been no games following the 2019 season. Since then, it has been replaced by a "National Pro Combine Day" held in February.[15] A game is scheduled for January 2024 in Celebration, Florida.
MVPs
Overall MVPs of each game are listed below. Some additional awards not listed are also given, for offensive and defensive player of each team, special teams player, lineman, and the James Pratt Courage Award.
