The fourth edition of the Liberty Bowl, it featured the Oregon State Beavers and the Villanova Wildcats, both independent programs.
19 West Virginia, and a 20–17 rally win (after trailing 17–6 at halftime) over rival Oregon.
Although Oregon State was the clear favorite, the hometown Wildcats kept the game close.
Trapped at their one-yard line after a punt, Baker was almost sacked by Al Atkinson for a safety, but he broke free, running by the sideline and sprinting toward the end zone.
[3][4][5] Villanova had a Billy Joe touchdown called back due to a penalty and had another chance intercepted by the Beaver defense.