The team from Cologne was level on points with Borussia Mönchengladbach before the final round of matches of the season, but had a ten-goal lead in goal difference over their rivals.
However, the team around Jupp Heynckes and Berti Vogts missed out on the title by three goals because Köln won 5–0 against FC St. Pauli at the same time.
Forwards: Dieter Müller (33 / 24); Roger Van Gool (32 / 12); Hannes Löhr (8 / 1).
(league appearances and goals listed in brackets) Manager: Hennes Weisweiler.
On the roster but have not played in a league game: Gerald Ehrmann; Wolfgang Weber; Heinz Pape; Norbert Schmitz; Preben Elkjær ; Klaus Kösling.