East Texas State posted a 10-1 record on the year, including a 6-1 record in Lone Star Conference play en route to the conference title. The Lions then went on to defeat Missouri Valley 26-7 in the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Fla., their second bowl victory within a calendar year.

Quarterback Sam McCord threw for 111 yards and scored a touchdown and added 69 yards on the ground to earn the Tangerine Bowl MVP award. The defense stifled Missouri Valley's rushing attack that was averaging 450 yards per game, holding them to just 154 yards.

After the season, captain Norman Roberts and McCord garnered First Team All-America honors. Four players from the team earned First Team All-LSC honors. Four more were named Second Team All-LSC and three garnered Honorable Mention All-LSC honors.