Annual Carolina-Clemson blood drive runs Nov. 16-20
COLUMBIA – University of South Carolina students, faculty, alumni and fans are being encouraged to donate blood Nov. 16-20 as the Gamecocks compete against Clemson in the 42nd annual Carolina-Clemson Blood Battle.
The annual blood drive competition takes place the week before the two schools meet for the Palmetto Bowl. While both teams hope for a victory on the football field, the blood drive offers an opportunity to help patients battling cancer, undergoing transplant surgery and facing other medical challenges.
Since the competition began in 1984, it has collected nearly 125,000 units of blood to support patients in need.
Clemson won the 2025 competition, and South Carolina donors are hoping to bring the trophy back to Columbia this year. The winning school will be recognized during the Nov. 28 football game at Memorial Stadium in Clemson.
Blood drives will be held at several locations on the USC campus. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20.
All presenting donors at USC will receive a Blood Battle hoodie while supplies last. Additionally, those who donate through Nov. 22 will receive up to $20 in gift cards, including a $10 Amazon gift card by email and 500 bonus Blood Donor Rewards points, redeemable for a $10 e-gift card. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Maze for details.
Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Donors can schedule an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org using sponsor code GAMECOCKS.
The American Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood supply. Volunteer blood and platelet donors provide a critical resource for patients, and all blood types are needed to maintain a reliable supply.
How to donate
Eligible donors can schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-733-2767.
Donors must bring a blood donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification. Individuals who are 17 or older (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible. Additional height and weight requirements apply to high school students and other donors 18 and younger.
Donors can also save time by completing their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online through RapidPass on the day of their donation. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass for instructions.
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