After a career as a television football analyst, Walsh chose to come back as Stanford's head coach, stating, "This is my bliss.
[1] Head coach Joe Paterno was making his 23rd bowl game appearance in his 27th year at Penn State.
[1] On its first possession, Stanford drove 71 yards on eight plays and scored on a two-yard pass from Steve Stenstrom to Ryan Wetnight.
Cornerback Darrien Gordon was named the game's MVP after breaking up six passes, making seven tackles, and holding receiver McDuffie in check.
Receiver McDuffie went on to a successful eight-year career with the Miami Dolphins and Richie Anderson was a Pro Bowler for the New York Jets.