In their third year head under coach Dick Trachok, the Wolf Pack compiled a 5–4 record (2–3 in conference games), tied for fourth place in the FWC, and were outscored by a total of 179 to 153.
[2] Three Nevada players received first-team all-conference honors: end Jim Whitaker; defensive tackle Larry Moss; and linebacker Max Culp.
The team played its home games at Mackay Stadium in Reno, Nevada.
[2] QuarterbackJack Renwick led the team in passing, total offense, and scoring.
[2] Three Nevada players received first-team honors on the 1961 All-Far Western Conference football team: end Jim Whitaker (first-team offense, second-team defense); defensive tackle Larry Moss; and linebacker Max Culp.