[6][7] In the Battle of the Palouse, the Vandals suffered an eighth straight loss to neighbor Washington State of the Pac-8, falling 84–27 at Martin Stadium in Pullman on November 15.

This was the first year the Vandals played home games indoors; the Kibbie Dome's arched roof and end walls were constructed in ten months following the 1974 season.

Dennis Erickson, age 28, completed his second year as offensive coordinator, then left for Fresno State; he returned to the UI program in 1982 as head coach.

Four Vandal seniors were named to the Big Sky all-conference team: quarterback Dave Comstock, fullback J.C. Chadband, tight end Steve Duncanson, and defensive back Bill Keilty.

The second team included center John Yarno, tackle Wil Overgaard, split end Tim Coles, and linebacker Mike Siva.