Played under snowy conditions, it marked the first time the game was played in snowy weather since the 1987 Christmas Day game with West Virginia and Oklahoma State.
The game featured the Miami Hurricanes against the Washington State Cougars.
After finishing their regular season 8–4, bowl director Bernie Olivas extended an invitation for the Hurricanes to play in the game, which they accepted.
After finishing their regular season 8–4, Olivas extended an invitation for the Cougars to play in the game, which they accepted as well.
Source: [2] Pound sign (#) denotes national championship game.