John Cooper's first season ended with a disappointing 4–6–1 record. The team showed flashes, but could not sustain success consistently.
Entering the 1989 season – Ohio State's 100th – Cooper made improving the defense a point of emphasis. The unit gave up a program-high 283 points the year prior. The team had to win at least six games to avoid consecutive losing seasons for the first time since 1923 and 1924.
| The 1989 Buckeyes | |
|---|---|
| Record | 8–4 |
| B1G Record | 6–2, 3rd |
| Coach | John Cooper (2nd year, 12–10–1) |
| CaptainS | David Brown, Jeff Davidson, Zack Dumas, Derek Isaman, Joe Staysniak September 16th • Oklahoma State • Ohio Stadium |