In their eighth season under head coach Jim Walden, the Cougars compiled a 4–7 record (3–5 in Pac-10, tied for seventh), and outscored their opponents 313 to 282.

[3] This season's offense included the "RPM" backfield: Rypien at quarterback,[4] with Kerry Porter and Mayes at running back.

[5][6] All three were previous first team all-conference selections (Porter as a sophomore in 1983), and expectations were high; injuries on defense took a toll and five of their losses were by a touchdown or less.

[9][10][11][12] With frigid temperatures and snow on the Palouse prior to the game, the Cougars held indoor practices in the evening at the Kibbie Dome in neighboring Moscow, Idaho.

[13][14] Defensive lineman Erik Howard and return specialist Kitrick Taylor were also named All-Pac-10.