In their 13th season under head coach Carnie Smith, the Gorillas compiled an 11–0 record (5–0 in conference games) and were ranked No.

The team's assistant coaches were Ray Laing, Tom Lester, Joe Murphy, Al Ortolani, and Sam Carter.

[16] After completing its undefeated regular season, Pittsburg State was one of four teams invited to participate in the NAIA playoffs.

"[13] On December 9, Pittsburg State defeated the Linfield Wildcats of Oregon, 12–7, in the NAIA national championship game known as the Camellia Bowl in Sacramento, California.

On the first play from scrimmage, Pittsburg State halfback Bob Fulton took the ball on a pitchout from quarterback Phil Vogrin and ran around the right end for 64 yards and a touchdown.