The Ohio State Buckeyes are competing again this time for a cause bigger than football. On Wednesday, current players and two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin came together at Ohio Stadium to support the “We Give Blood” campaign.
The effort is part of a Big Ten-wide challenge organized with healthcare partner Abbott. The school that records the most blood donations by the end of the contest will receive a $1 million grant to support student or community health and wellness programs.
What Happened
Members of the Buckeyes community gathered inside the Huntington Club at Ohio Stadium for the program’s introductory on-campus drive, which ran from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Archie Griffin, the only two-time Heisman winner in college football history, personally donated blood alongside several current players.
Ohio State beat writer Dan Hope noted the strong presence of Griffin and active roster members helping launch the campaign. Fans who donated received a free exclusive “We Give Blood” Ohio State T-shirt. Donors were also entered into a sweepstakes for Ryan Day-signed mini-helmets and a VIP meet-and-greet opportunity connected to the Ryan Day Show.
Why This Matters
Griffin’s involvement carries special weight. As one of the most iconic figures in program history — with his No. 45 retired and a bronze statue outside the stadium Rotunda — his participation draws multi-generational support. Current players connect with students, while Griffin resonates with alumni, boosters, and lifelong fans.
Griffin has long credited former coach Woody Hayes and his own upbringing for instilling the value of giving back. His presence helps turn a routine blood drive into a meaningful community event that reaches far beyond the football program.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
The challenge pits all 18 Big Ten schools against one another. Donations are tracked throughout the season, with the winner to be announced on December 5 at the Big Ten Football Championship Game in Indianapolis.
As of the latest available update, Ohio State sat in fourth place with 150 donors and an estimated 450 lives impacted. Nebraska led the leaderboard with 421 donors, followed by Wisconsin (254) and Iowa (172). Nebraska won the inaugural challenge in 2024, while Wisconsin claimed the title the following year.
Previous winners have directed the $1 million grant toward mental health resources, campus produce gardens, financial coaching for students, and other wellness initiatives.
What Happens Next
The competition continues for the rest of the season. Ohio State will host additional donation opportunities, and fans are encouraged to participate to help the Buckeyes climb the leaderboard.
Griffin’s early involvement and the presence of current players set a strong tone. Sustained community participation will determine whether Ohio State can challenge the early leaders and claim the grant.
The Bigger Picture
In a year full of on-field expectations, this effort shows the program competing in a different arena. Combining the star power of Archie Griffin with the current roster creates a powerful message about service that extends well beyond Saturdays in the Horseshoe.
For Buckeye fans, showing up to donate is a simple way to support both the community and the university’s chance at a significant wellness investment.
13. FAQ Section
What is the “We Give Blood” challenge?
A Big Ten-wide blood donation competition sponsored by Abbott. The school with the most donations wins a $1 million grant for health and wellness programs.
Who participated from Ohio State?
Several current football players and Hall of Famer Archie Griffin, who personally donated blood.
Where was the Ohio State drive held?
Inside the Huntington Club at Ohio Stadium.
What incentives were offered to donors?
A free exclusive “We Give Blood” Ohio State T-shirt, plus entry into a sweepstakes for Ryan Day-signed mini-helmets and a VIP experience.
When will the winner be announced?
December 5 at the 2026 Big Ten Football Championship Game in Indianapolis.
Reader Question
Will you donate blood to help Ohio State climb the Big Ten leaderboard and compete for the $1 million Abbott grant?
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