In its sixth season under head coach Jim Freeman, the Cardinals compiled a 2–5–1 record, were outscored by a total of 179 to 68, and finished in a three-way tie for fourth place out of seven teams in the ICC.

[1][2] Fullback Peter Jubeck and center Al Thomas were the team's co-captains.

[18] Halfback Joe Robinson led the team in scoring with 20 points on three touchdowns and a two-point conversion.

[20] The John Magnabosco Award for the most outstanding player of 1961 went to center and co-captain Al Thomas.

[21] [22][9] Jim Freeman was regarded as one of the ICC's best lineman, sustained a serious knee injury in the Cardinals' homecoming loss to Indiana State and was lost to the team for the remainder of the season.