USC announces new partnership to benefit Williams-Brice Stadium

Blanchard Machinery is partnering with USC, funding Williams-Brice upgrades and debuting the first-ever on-field logo.

Aerial concept rendering of Williams-Brice Stadium filled with fans, highlighting proposed renovations such as expanded premium seating on the west side, two large videoboards in the south end zone, and updated concourse areas.

A concept rendering shows planned upgrades to Williams-Brice Stadium, including expanded premium seating on the west side and new videoboards in the south end zone. | Rendering via Populous

When the Gamecocks take the field for their home opener against SC State on Saturday, Sept. 6, Williams-Brice Stadium will feature its first-ever on-field sponsored logo — Blanchard Machinery’s mark at both 25-yard lines.

The Columbia-based company announced a five-year partnership with Gamecock Athletics that will help fund stadium upgrades. As part of the deal, the Blanchard CAT and Blanchard Rental logos will debut at the 2025 home opener.

“We are incredibly proud to join forces with Blanchard in this truly unique partnership,” said USC Director of Athletics Jeremiah Donati. “The addition of the Blanchard logos on the field at Williams-Brice Stadium is a symbol of the progress we can achieve when our community, alumni, and partners work together.”

As part of the agreement, Blanchard will also participate in USC’s Student-Athlete Development Program, offering internships, post-graduate jobs, and career-development workshops, while continuing sponsorships across multiple sports.

The announcement comes after the USC Board of Trustees approved phase two of a $350 million renovation plan for Williams-Brice in May. The project will be funded with athletic revenue bonds and led by Populous, the stadium design firm behind the Buffalo Bills’ new stadium, alongside project partners Legends, Contract Construction, and Manhattan Construction Company.

Concept rendering from the stands at Williams-Brice Stadium, highlighting planned west side renovations with expanded premium seating, enclosed club spaces, and a new videoboard in the south end zone. The stadium is filled with fans during a game-day scene.

This rendering shows the planned west side renovations at Williams-Brice Stadium, including expanded premium seating, new club areas, and upgraded fan amenities. | Rendering by Populous

Changes coming to Williams-Brice Stadium

  • Premium seating: West side expansion from an SEC-low 18 suites to 43, including 10 Founders Suites (42 guests each) and 33 other suites (20–32 guests each).
  • Clubs + lounges: New north and south clubs with premium food lobbies, kitchens, a field-level club, and a recruitment lounge.
  • Fan amenities: Student section upgrades, more restrooms, improved concessions, and wider concourses for better crowd flow.
  • Tech upgrades: Two large videoboards in the south end zone.
  • Locker room renovations: Field-level improvements for players and staff.

Construction is expected to wrap by August 2027, with the west side being prioritized for premium seating revenue early in the project.

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