The national champion(s) for each season were determined by the final poll rankings, published at or near the end of the regular season, before any bowl games were played.
In 1966, both services ranked San Diego State (10–0) at the top, with Montana State (8–2) ranked second by UPI and third by the AP, led by quarterbacks Don Horn and Dennis Erickson, respectively.
They later met in the Camellia Bowl in Sacramento, California,[2] with San Diego State prevailing, 28–7.
[3][4] United Press International (coaches) final poll Published on November 30[5] Associated Press (writers) final poll Published on December 1[6]
The postseason consisted of four bowls as regional finals, played on December 10.