The team's statistical leaders included quarterback Jeff Bender with 1,487 passing yards, tailback Donnie Riley with 1,187 rushing yards, and Ken Ealy with 346 receiving yards.[5] Riley received the team's most valuable player award.[6] Six Central Michigan players (Riley, center Ralph Newland, placekicker Kevin Nicholl, linebacker Mark Dennis, defensive lineman J.J. Wierenga, and defensive back David Johnson) received first-team All-MAC honors.[7] Nicholl set a school record with 20 field goals kicked during the 1989 season.[8]