Expectations were high as Ohio State had 11 starters and 37 lettermen returning for the 1990 season.
Running back Carlos Snow underwent surgery to remove a tumor from his right hip, but a talented freshman named Robert Smith readied as a capable replacement. However, John Cooper's focus rested on fixing a defense that allowed 580 points over his first two seasons.
| The 1990 Buckeyes | |
|---|---|
| Record | 7–4–1 |
| B1G Record | 5–2–1, 5th |
| Coach | John Cooper (3rd year, 19–14–2) |
| CaptainS | Dan Beatty, Vinnie Clark, Greg Frey, Jeff Graham, Mark Pelini September 8th • Texas Tech • Ohio Stadium |