The Crimson Tide were ranked second to start the season, but tied visiting Florida State in their opener and lost to eventual conference champion Tennessee a month later, also in Birmingham.

[4] Following their victory over South Carolina, Alabama accepted an invitation to the Cotton Bowl on November 20.

[6] With a 10–7 victory over rival Texas in the regular season finale, the Aggies secured their position in the Cotton Bowl as SWC champions.

Alabama opened the game with a ten-play, 80-yard drive with quarterback Ken Stabler scoring on a three-yard run.

[7] The Aggies responded with a 13-yard Edd Hargett touchdown pass to Larry Stegent to tie the game at 7–7 at the end of the first quarter.