Wailuku, Hawaii ? Nick Rolovich proved himself again.

Rolovich started the season as Hawaii’s third-string quarterback, but finished as one of the school’s best passers and capped off his college career with an MVP performance Saturday in the Hula Bowl.

He threw three touchdown passes in the first half to lead the South to a 45-28 victory over the North in the all-star game.

“It was great to end my college career at home in front of everyone,” he said. “I dreamed this game would go well for me, and it did.”

The Hawaii quarterback won the South MVP award while outshining the other all-stars, including Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch of Nebraska, who was 4-of-11 for 45 yards and three interceptions.

The game at War Memorial Stadium on Maui island closed the college football season. It also was the final college game for Steve Spurrier, who resigned at Florida and was hired as coach of the Washington Redskins. Spurrier was an assistant South coach, under Oklahoma’s Bob Stoops, a former Florida assistant.

“I’m just ready to start helping the Redskins,” said Spurrier. “(I’m going) for the challenge of the pro game and because people say I can’t do it.”

Verron Haynes of Georgia led the South’s ground attack, rushing for 84 yards and a touchdown.

The South dominated the entire game, taking a 28-7 lead in the first half, capitalizing on five North turnovers while running up 308 yards on offense. Haynes got the scoring going in the first quarter with a 3-yard plunge.

The 45 points by the South was the highest output since 1968.

“I had the opportunity to work with a great group of players,” Stoops said. “It’s always fun to win.”

Rolovich went on to complete 9 of 17 passes for 163 yards and three touchdowns in the first half, including two to Oregon tight end Justin Peelle. He finished with 171 yards on 10-of-18 passing with two interceptions.

Crouch had a dismal passing game, throwing two interceptions in the first two offensive series. The Nebraska standout saw some action as a kick returner and a receiver in the second half, catching a 33-yard pass from Brandon Doman of BYU late in the game. He also had 29 yards rushing on five carries.