Richmond, VA (Sports Network) - There was talk at the 86th East-West Shrine Game about how Richmond's Martin Parker and Justin Rogers were among the most NFL-ready of the small-school players.

That Parker went out Saturday and earned defensive player of the game honors supported that notion.

With a pair of sacks and a forced fumble, the 6-foot-3, 283-pound defensive tackle helped lead the way in the East's 25-8 victory over the West in the annual showcase for college seniors at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando. The West managed only 14 yards rushing and eight first downs.

"My goal coming down here was just to play a solid game and just show the scouts (and) show the people what I could do," Parker said. "It never crossed my mind that I would go out there and be defensive player of the game. I'm really thankful and grateful for it."

Parker and Rogers, a 5-10, 181-pound cornerback and kickoff returner, were both All-CAA First Team selections as seniors. Parker was named to The Sports Network/Fathead.com FCS All-America First Team, while Rogers was named to the third team.

Both players will head next to the NFL Scouting Combine in February.

01/24 12:16:15 ET