In their first year under head coach Ray Clemons, the Hornets compiled a 4–5 record (2–3 in conference games), tied for fourth place in the FWC, and were outscored by a total of 117 to 106.
Three Sacramento State players received first-team honors on the 1961 All-Far Western Conference football team: Adolphus McGee at back; John Moreno at linebacker; and Gil Garcia at wingback.
The team played its home games at Charles C. Hughes Stadium in Sacramento, California.
[9] Junior fullback Gene Reyes led the team in rushing, tallying 462 yards on 101 carries for a 4.6-yard average.
[10] Three Sacramento State players received first-team honors on the 1961 All-Far Western Conference football team: Adolphus McGee at back (offense); John Moreno at linebacker (defense); and Gil Garcia at wingback (defense).