[2] Stanford's starting quarterback, John Paye, was sidelined for the game due to a shoulder injury and backup Greg Ennis was named the starter.
[2][3] The champions of the Atlantic Coast Conference, Clemson had recorded ties in its last two regular season games.
[2] Under head coach Danny Ford, the Tigers were led by tailbacks Kenny Flowers and Terrence Flagler.
[3] The Cardinal had several chances to tie or win the game, but Ennis was intercepted inside the 10-yard line on one drive, and turned the ball over on downs with less than two minutes remaining.
Junior Clemson kicker David Treadwell was named a 1987 consensus All-American and would go on to a successful NFL kicking career with the Denver Broncos and New York Giants.