In its tenth year under head coach Ken Sparks, the team compiled a 12–1 record (6–1 against conference opponents) and won the SAC championship.
[1] The Eagles advanced to the NAIA playoffs, defeating West Virginia Tech in the quarterfinals and Central State (OH) in the semifinals.
[4] After the season, Sparks was chosen as the SAC Coach of the Year, the fourth time he won the award.
In addition, Carson–Newman strong safety Joe Fishback was named SAC Defensive Player of the Year, and free safety Chuck Proffitt was named SAC Freshman of the Year.
Seven Carson–Newman players received first-team honors on the All-SAC team: running back Vernon Turner; offensive linemen Kelly Rasnic and Paige Belcher; place-kicker Rick Wetsel; defensive lineman John Mefford; and defensive backs Joe Fishback and David Pool.