The collegiate champion Kwansei Gakuin University Fighters not only beat the X League champion Asahi Beverage Challengers but also shut down criticism that the annual national championship game should not be played between the college and company leagues.
Quarterback Yosuke Ozaki rushed for 106 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Fighters to a 30-27 triumph over the defending national champion Challengers on Thursday at the Tokyo Dome in the Rice Bowl.
With the win, the Fighters clinched their first national title. Kwansei Gakuin also ended the collegiate representatives' losing skid in the Rice Bowl at five. The X League side has an 10-9 overall record in the game.