The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan has played out on the football field for decades, but there’s another battle that Buckeyes take just as seriously: the annual Blood Battle.
This event has been a tradition since 1982, pitting Ohio State against Michigan in a race to see which university can collect the most blood donations. For the past two years, Ohio State has claimed victory, and now, the Buckeyes are back to defend their title in this month-long competition. This year, Blood Battle runs from October 23 through November 27, 2024.
The Blood Battle isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s also about making a real difference.
With a nationwide blood shortage, especially of type O blood, every donation is crucial. Last summer, blood supplies across the U.S. dropped by more than 25%, and the need for donations is at an all-time high. The Red Cross has reported that the national blood supply is struggling to keep up with hospital demands, meaning that donations made during this Blood Battle could help save lives.
This year’s event is part of the We Give Blood drive in partnership with Abbott and the Big Ten, which aims to address what’s being called the greatest blood shortage in a generation. Since July, extreme weather and heat have canceled thousands of blood drives nationwide, leaving hospitals short on life-saving blood supplies.
For Buckeyes, this is a chance to not only beat Michigan but also to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Every donor will receive a limited-edition Blood Battle t-shirt (while supplies last), and donations can be submitted online to the We Give Blood competition. If we can get enough Buckeyes to roll up their sleeves, we won’t just take down Michigan—we’ll take on the entire Big Ten!
The urgency is clear.
The American Red Cross has stated that type O blood, the most commonly used and versatile blood type, is in critically short supply. Type O positive blood can be given to any patient with a positive blood type, while O negative is the universal blood type needed in emergency situations. Hospitals rely on these blood types for trauma patients, and the current shortage is making it harder for them to respond to emergencies.
For Ohio State, the Blood Battle isn’t just another rivalry—it’s a chance to step up and make a difference when it matters most. With the national blood shortage continuing to threaten patient care, this year’s competition has never been more important.
So, Buckeyes, it’s time to bleed scarlet—literally.
Let’s bring home that Blood Battle trophy for the third year in a row, and while we’re at it, help address the critical blood shortage that’s affecting the entire nation. You can find all the details and upcoming blood drive events here.
