The 1997 Tigers went 7–5 (5–3 in Big 12 play), ending a streak of 13 consecutive losing seasons.

However, the Tigers lost to Colorado State, 35–24, in the Holiday Bowl in San Diego.

They played their home games at Faurot Field in Columbia, Missouri.

The loss to eventual the national champion, (and then top-ranked) Nebraska in overtime came after the infamous Flea Kicker play.

This was a deflection reception off an unintentionally kicked pass as the receiver that was falling and tried pull the ball to his chest with his foot, resulting in a deflection off the foot that another receiver was able to dive a catch.