Competing in its first post-season bowl game ever, BYU played Western Athletic Conference host to the Oklahoma State Cowboys before a crowd of 50,878. The Cougars got off to a quick start with two field goals during the first quarter before All-WAC quarterback Gary Sheide suffered a dislocated shoulder in the last moments of the quarter. He was replaced by junior reserve Mark Giles. The Cowboys took the scoring lead during the second quarter on a touchdown run around left end, giving Oklahoma State a 7-6 halftime advantage. OSU regained possession of the ball on the Cougars’ 17-yard line after intercepting Giles, but the Cowboys were unable to convert on the turnover. A field goal from 32 yards out put the Cowboys in front 10-6 at the end of the third quarter. With 1:14 remaining in the game, Oklahoma State scored another touchdown on a 40-yard halfback pass to complete the scoring. The Cougars out-gained Oklahoma State in total yardage, 301-214. Giles was 11 of 26 for 138 yards. After three losses and a tie to open the season, the Cougars reeled off seven straight victories prior to the bowl game