They were led by first-year head coach Dennis Raetz and played their home games at Memorial Stadium.

The roster included quarterback Reggie Allen, the 1979 MVC Offensive MVP; safety John Allman; and Craig Shaffer the 1981 MVC Defensive MVP.

[1] Allman was the first Sycamore to be named to consecutive all-conference honors.

Four Sycamores led the MVC in different statistical categories: Kirk Wilson in yards per reception, Joe Stellern in field goals made, Lester Byrd in yardage per kickoff return and John Allman in interception return yardage.

Six Sycamores were named to all-conference teams: Hubert Moore, TE; Eddie Ruffin, WR; Mark Gradkowski, OG; John Gaunt, DT; Craig Shaffer, LB and John Allman, DB[2] [14]