Led by 11th-year head coach Bob Mattos, Sacramento State compiled an overall record of 10–3 with a mark of 4–2 in conference play, tying for second place in the WFC.
The Hornets finished the regular season schedule with a record of 8–2.
For the first time they qualified for the NCAA Division II Football Championship playoffs.
North Dakota State defeated the Hornets, 42–20, on their way to a national title.
Eight players Sacramento State received first-team All-WFC honors: wide receiver Mark Young, running back Donald Hair, center Harry Williams, kicker Jim Gill, defensive lineman Ken Stinnett, linebacker Derek Stigerts, defensive back JR Richards, and safety Gary Lunsford.