CINCINNATI — The second annual Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati blood drive kicks off this week. 

The challenge is connected to the "Hell is Real" matchup between the teams — a name that started by mouth and eventually caught on to become the nickname of the matchup. The saying is also on a billboard on I-71 that's in between the two cities.

The blood drive runs from Aug. 1 to Aug. 31, and the "Hell is Real" game is at TQL Stadium on Sept. 14. 

“We are thrilled to bring this competition back and join FC Cincinnati once again in the mission to save lives in Ohio,” said Josh Glessing, chief of Strategy & Corporate Development at Haslam Sports Group. “While we may be rivals on the pitch, donations from both clubs’ supporters show the lasting impact that the beautiful game can have off the pitch.”

The Crew plans to partner with the American Red Cross and OhioHealth for the competition, whereas FC Cincinnati is partnering with Hoxworth Blood Center. Individuals who donate at any of the partners' official sites during the month or at Lower.com Field on Friday, Aug. 23 will receive a club-themed shirt. Donors who register online will also count toward each city's total. 

Between both Crew and FC Cincinnati fans, they surpassed 17,750 registered donors with a total of 17,771 during the inaugural competition last year. Columbus collected more than Cincinnati though, claiming the contest's first trophy.