The 1990 Minnesota Golden Gophers football team represented the University of Minnesota in the 1990 NCAA Division I-A football season. In their fifth year under head coach John Gutekunst, the Golden Gophers compiled a 6–5 record and were outscored by their opponents by a combined total of 281 to 224. Center Chris Thome was named All-Big Ten first team. Offensive tackle Mike Sunvold and defensive back Sean Lumpkin were named All-Big Ten second team. Punter Brent Herbel was named Academic All-American. Quarterback Scott Schaffner and linebacker Joel Staats were named Academic All-Big Ten.