More Than a Game: South Carolina’s Biggest Rivals Unite to Save Lives
Every fall, South Carolina’s most passionate rivalry takes center stage—Clemson University v. the University of South Carolina (USC). This long-standing competition extends beyond the field and into the community. The Blood Connection (TBC) is challenging students, faculty and fans from both powerhouse schools to turn that team pride into something even more meaningful: saving lives.
Now in its 41st year, the annual rivalry blood donation challenge has become a defining tradition of compassion and community. From Monday, November 17 to Friday, November 21, both schools will host blood drives that not only bring out school spirit but also directly support hospital patients across the state. Every pint collected can save up to three lives, serving as a reminder that this rivalry’s biggest win happens off the field.
Clemson Blood Bowl
For Clemson University, the Blood Bowl is more than a challenge—it’s a point of pride. The Tigers have consistently rallied their campus community to lead the charge for local patients, with students, staff and alumni alike showing what it means to be a part of the Tiger family.
“Every year, the Clemson Blood Bowl reminds us of what it means to be part of the Tiger Family,” said Ellie Cain, Alpha Phi Omega Blood Bowl Co-Chair at Clemson University. “From first-time donors to long-time participants, each story adds to a tradition of compassion and community that truly saves lives—and makes us proud to call Clemson home.”
Every donation collected at Clemson supports Upstate hospitals, where TBC provides lifesaving blood products to patients in need every day. Donors who participate will receive an exclusive Clemson v. USC Blood Bowl sweatshirt, a limited-edition collector’s piece for every Tiger who gives back, while supplies last.
USC Blood Battle
For Gamecocks, the Blood Battle is a chance to channel that fierce competitive energy into something that truly matters. Students, faculty and fans across campus are coming together to out-donate their rivals and make a lifesaving impact for patients right here in South Carolina.
“Through this friendly rivalry against Clemson University, our mission is to raise awareness of the constant need for blood, inspire our community to take action and demonstrate how a shared cause can bring people together to make an impact,” said Molly Wacaser, President of the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive Committee at the University of South Carolina. “Every pint donated represents more than a point for Carolina—it’s a life saved, a family helped and a powerful reminder that compassion runs deeper than rivalry.”
Every donation made at USC directly supports patients at Lexington Medical Center and other local hospitals that depend on donors through TBC. Gamecock donors will receive an exclusive USC v. Clemson Blood Battle sweatshirt while supplies last—a bold reminder that giving blood is the ultimate show of team pride.
When Rivals Unite, Communities Thrive
The challenge between Clemson and USC are just one example of how friendly competition can fuel meaningful change. Each donation supports TBC’s mission to provide lifesaving blood products to more than 130 hospitals across the Southeast.
“At the heart of this rivalry is something greater than a game,” said Delisa K. English, President and CEO of The Blood Connection. “When Clemson and USC fans compete off the field, they’re proving that true champions show up for their community. Every pint donated helps save lives right here at home—and that’s victory we can all celebrate.”
Whether you’re a Tiger, a Gamecock or simply someone who believes in giving back, you can be a part of the movement. Step up, host a blood drive in your community and help turn school spirit into a statewide legacy of saving lives.