Whittier compiled a perfect 9–0 record in the regular season, won the SCIAC championship, and lost to Linfield in the semifinals of the NAIA playoffs.
Halfback Dick Skinner led the team in rushing with 120 carries for 648 yards.
[6] Three Whittier players were selected as first-team players on the 1961 All-SIAC football team: junior back Dick Skinner; junior end Stan Sanders; and senior guard Dave Okura.
Three Occidental players were selected as first-team players on the 1961 All-SIAC team: junior back John Whitney; junior end Jerry Greenwalt; and senior tackle Mike Lewis.
Senior back Pete Rodi was a first-team selection on the 1961 All-SCIAC team.
At the end of the season, the conference coaches selected the best players at each position to their 1961 all-SIAC football team.