 Oregon State responded by inviting Fordham, with whom they had a history, but Fordham turned down the invitation to play against Missouri in the Sugar Bowl.Unable to invite their three first choices, the Beavers settled on number-two-ranked and undefeated Duke Blue Devils, much to the chagrin of Southern California.On December 7, 1941, the United States was forced into World War II because of the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.