1989 Purdue Boilermakers football team

The 1989 Purdue Boilermakers football team represented Purdue University as a member of the Big Ten Conference during the 1989 NCAA Division I-A football season. Led by third-year head coach Fred Akers, the Boilermakers compiled an overall record of 3–8 with a mark of 2–6 in conference play, placing eighth in the Big Ten. It was Purdue's fifth straight losing season. The team played home games at Ross–Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana.

Preseason
Brian Fox transferred after spring practice to Florida, citing a desire to be closer to home and head coach Fred Akers' adjustment of the offensive scheme.

At Minnesota

 * Larry Sullivan tied a school record with 51-yard field goal
 * Darren Trieb was suspended for the game for violation of team rules

Illinois
Jeff Lesniewicz made his first career start for Purdue

Michigan State
Homecoming Jeff Lesniewicz knocked out of game with concussion

Northwestern
Purdue snapped a streak of 10 straight games without a first quarter point.

At Indiana
Larry Sullivan kicked a 32-yard field goal with 2:51 left and Scott Bonnell missed a 26-yard field goal for Indiana with 1:29 remaining. Fred Akers was carried off the field by his players.

Awards
Eric Hunter
 * Big Ten Freshman of the Year