The 1997 edition to the Las Vegas Bowl was the 6th edition of that annual game. It featured the Oregon Ducks, and the Air Force Falcons. Despite being decisive underedogs, the Oregon Ducks crushed 21st ranked Air Force Oregon scored first on a 69 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Akili Smith to wide receiver Pat Johnson for a 7-0 Oregon lead. The big plays continued for Oregon, as running back Saladin McCullough rushed 76 yards for a touchdown, but the extra point attempt failed, and Oregon had a 13-0 lead.