The 1961 Butler Bulldogs football team was an American football team that represented Butler University as a member of the Indiana Collegiate Conference (ICC) during the 1961 NCAA College Division football season. In their 21st year under head coach Tony Hinkle, the Bulldogs compiled a perfect 9–0 record (6–0 against ICC opponents), won the ICC championship, and outscored opponents by a total of 251 to 65.
Quarterback Phil Long, halfback Larry Shook, and tackle Don Benbow won first-team spots on the 1961 All-ICC football team. Long and Benbow were honored for the second consecutive year. Long also received Butler's most valuable player award at the end of the 1961 season. During Long's three year's on Butler's football team, the team compiled a 26–1 record and won three consecutive ICC championships. Don Benbow won the team's Hilton Brown award for mental attitude and leadership.
Prior to 1959, Butler had not had an undefeated season since 1936. Butler compiled two perfect seasons in three years with both the 1959 and 1961 teams going undefeated and untied. Between October 5, 1957, and October 20, 1962, the Bulldogs won four consecutive ICC championships and lost only two games.
The team played its home games at the Butler Bowl in Indianapolis.