In their second year under head coach Ray Nolting, the Bearcats compiled a 9–2 record, outscored opponents by a total of 221 to 93, and won the MAC championship.

20 in the final AP poll), Kentucky (coached by Bear Bryant), and Michigan State.

Cincinnati closed its season with a victory over Virginia Tech, 18–6, in the Sun Bowl.

Hal Johnson, Al Sabato, and Don McMillan scored Cincinnati touchdowns.

[2] Roger Stephens led the Bearcats and ranked sixth nationally with 774 rushing yards and led the nation with an average of 7.66 yards per carry.