In 1996, then-Southwest Missouri State entered the final five games of the regular season with a 5-1 record and an opportunity to make the playoffs for the first time since 1990.
The Bears had a combined record of 27-27-1 since then and missed out on a few opportunities at making it back. With three of their next four games against ranked opponents, the Bears controlled their destiny.
Against No. 3 Northern Iowa, the Bears spotted the Panthers a 31-9 lead at halftime. SMS rallied in the second half with a 22-0 fourth quarter and reached the 10-yard line when down seven for the final play of the game.