The U.S. Senate has passed a resolution recognizing the University of Missouri's claim to the 1960 college football national championship, adding the Tigers to the list of teams with a stake in that year's title. The resolution, introduced by Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., passed without objection. While resolutions do not carry the force of law, they reflect the Senate's sentiments.
The 1960 college football season concluded with a complex championship landscape, decided by polls and rankings rather than a playoff system. Missouri finished its season with a 10-1 record, its sole loss coming against rival Kansas in a game that determined the Big Eight Conference title. However, the conference later ordered Kansas to forfeit the win due to ineligible player usage stemming from recruiting violations.
Missouri defeated Navy, led by Heisman Trophy winner Joe Bellino, in the Orange Bowl. Despite the team's record and subsequent bowl victory, Missouri had not previously claimed the 1960 national championship.
Other teams have also been recognized with claims to the 1960 title. Minnesota was crowned champion by the Associated Press and United Press International polls, though the Gophers lost to Washington in the Rose Bowl. The Football Writers Association of America selected Mississippi as its post-bowl champion. The Helms Athletic Foundation recognized Washington, while the Litkenhous Rating system mathematically favored Iowa based on scoring margins and opponent strength.