Author: CJ Johnson

The Atlanta Falcons’ thrilling overtime win at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers shed some light on some of the good things the team is doing lately. Let’s get into it.

1. Kirk Cousins Is the Come-Behind King

Cousins was masterful in overtime with the big-time throw to lead the team to victory and throwing for 509 yards, but he’s done it all season. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, down by six with 1:39 left on the clock, the veteran quarterback engineered a 70-yard drive, finishing it off with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Drake London with 34 seconds left in the game.

he drove the Falcons done the field in the closing seconds and did the same against Kansas City, although it didn’t end the same.

His last-minute wins are why the Falcons are 3-2 at this juncture, rather than 0-5. Against the Bucs, Cousins continually found Drake London, Kyle Pitts and Darnell Mooney.

2. Kyle Pitts Is Still Alive

Left for dead over the past three games, tight end Kyle Pitts came alive with seven catches for 88 yards.

Going into the game, the talk was that Pitts and Cousins just couldn’t get on the same page and that the Falcons most likely would do well to trade him. But judging from Pitts’ performance against the Bucs, he is very much still a big part of the offense and just needs to continue to find his groove.

Cousins found him repeatedly over the middle and on the ends when the Bucs tried to blitz from the cornerback position. Can Pitts put together back-to-back good games? That remains to be seen.

3. The Swag Surf Advantage Is Real

DJ Big Tigger knows when to press the homecrowd into action. With the game on the line, the Falcons were energized when the crowd Swag Surfed once again. This time, even Kirk Cousins got in on the action.

4. The Falcons-Bucs Rivalry Is Real

The rivalry between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is one of the notable divisional matchups in the NFL, characterized by close contests, memorable moments, and a shared history within the NFC South division. Here’s a deep dive into their football history:

Origins of the Rivalry

• Formation of the Buccaneers: The rivalry began when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers joined the NFL in 1976. At that time, they played in the NFC Central division while the Atlanta Falcons were part of the NFC West.
• Early Meetings: The first meeting between the two teams took place on December 18, 1977, with the Falcons defeating the Buccaneers 17-0. The two teams didn’t become regular opponents until 2002 when they were both placed in the NFC South during the NFL’s realignment.

The NFC South Era (2002-Present)

The rivalry truly took shape in 2002 when the Falcons and Buccaneers were both placed in the newly created NFC South division, ensuring that they would play each other twice a season.

Key Aspects of the Rivalry:

• Parity and Close Contests: The games between the Falcons and Buccaneers have often been competitive, with the two teams trading victories and both franchises going through cycles of success and struggle.
• Divisional Stakes: As divisional rivals, these games frequently carry playoff implications, particularly during seasons where both teams are in contention for the NFC South title or a Wild Card spot.
• Fan Engagement: The proximity between Atlanta and Tampa Bay (roughly 450 miles) means that fans of both teams often travel to each other’s cities, adding intensity to the matchups.

Notable Moments

• 2002 Season: After realignment, the Buccaneers were dominant during their first season in the NFC South, ultimately winning the Super Bowl in 2002. The Falcons, led by young quarterback Michael Vick, would provide tough competition for Tampa Bay over the years but didn’t have the same level of success early on.
• 2004-2006: The rivalry heated up as both teams were competitive in the mid-2000s. Vick’s electrifying play and Tampa Bay’s strong defense led to some memorable showdowns.
• 2008-2012: During this period, both teams experienced success. The Buccaneers were in a rebuilding phase, but the Falcons, led by quarterback Matt Ryan and head coach Mike Smith, began to dominate the division. From 2008 to 2012, the Falcons won six out of the 10 matchups against the Bucs, including a memorable 2012 overtime win.
• 2016: The Falcons had a standout season, making a Super Bowl appearance. That year, they swept the Buccaneers in their regular-season matchups, highlighting their superiority in the division.
• 2020-2021: With Tom Brady joining the Buccaneers in 2020, Tampa Bay became a dominant force, winning the Super Bowl in Brady’s first season. They swept the Falcons in both 2020 and 2021, signaling a resurgence in Tampa Bay’s favor after a long period where Atlanta had been more successful.

Final Word

The Falcons had themselves a night by first, forcing overtime and then winning the game. Way to go, Falcons.

Check out the Atlanta Falcons 2024 schedule.

Not far from Atlanta is a great Alabama city called Opelika. We frequent it often as it’s between our two destinations of Atlanta, Georgia, and New Orleans, Louisiana.

If you’re ever in central Alabama, you might wonder what’s there to see and do in Opelika.

Where Does Opelika Get Its Name?

Opelika gets its name from its Native American origins. In the 1830s before the Natives were forced from the land, the area was known by its Muskogee name, “Large Swamp.”

While it’s no longer a large swamp, Opelika slowly but surely became a city due to the traffic a nearby railroad stop brought to the area. Now, thanks to nearby Auburn, the area is bustling with activity all times of the year.

Here Are Some Cool Things To Do In Opelika/Auburn

Visit Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux

3041 Capps Way, Opelika, AL 36804

One of the best restaurants you’ll find in Opelika is Walk-Ons, which was started by two former LSU athletes. The restaurant features some great fried seafood dishes that are true to its Cajun roots.

We had the Seafood Platter, Sweet Potato Fries, Eddys Sangria and more.

Here’s what one customer says about Walk-Ons. “Delicious! We sat at the bar and enjoyed an adult beverage. (Raspberry lemonade, I highly recommend) Our service and food was great. We definitely will back again. Great atmosphere for the whole family. Arcade games for the kids and TVs with games for the men to watch.”

Good Times Bowling

750 E Glenn Ave, Auburn, AL 36830

Although it’s not technically in Opelika, Good Times is close enough. The bowling alley features plenty of games, lanes and a full bar with some pretty decent food.

Buc-ees

2500 Buc-ee’s Blvd, Auburn, AL 36832

Perhaps you’ve heard of Buc-ees? It’s a very successful mega-gas station (120+ fueling stations) that has a ginormous amount of cooked and frozen food all themed around a beaver mascot. Did we mention that Buc-ee’s is open all night long?

When we went to Buc-ees I tried all I could, including the Beaver Nuggets, the Brisket Sandwich, the Sliced Brisket, the coffee, the Chicken Sandwich and more.

Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830

For a more serene and natural look at the area, you’ve got to check out Chewacla State Park. Known as a great fishing spot, Chewala State Park features a 26-acre lake where you can swim, fish and get some boating in.

Jordan-Hare Stadium

251 S Donahue Dr, Auburn, AL 36849

If you’re around the Opelika/Auburn area anywhere from September to early December, you’ll no doubt get swept up in some football, Auburn football to be exact.

The sights and sounds of Jordan-Hare Stadium, one of America’s largest stadium’s (88,000+ capacity), are one of the wonders of the Southeast. Come for the football, stay for the victory cries of “War Eagle!”

Final Word

Opelika and Auburn both make up a progressive and diverse area of Alabama. The university’s presence has risen the profile of the community and also brought some great places to eat and things to do to the area. If you’re driving down I-85, stop on by!

Because of its location, Atlanta, Georgia is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.

Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.

More Articles Like This:

• How to Travel For Less On Your Next Trip
• Strategies That Work: How To Save On Travel
• 10 Travel Hacks That Save You Time And Money

Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide

The Athlete’s Foot held a grand opening for its new corporate headquarters, flagship location and community center in Midtown Atlanta on Friday, September 13, 2024.

The Athlete’s Foot Opens in Atlanta

“We are thrilled to unveil our new US headquarters, flagship store, and community center in the heart of Midtown Atlanta,” said Matt Lafone, President and GM of Americas at The Athlete’s Foot. “This location is the first of its kind on Atlanta’s iconic BeltLine and will serve as a cultural hub for community engagement and deeper connectivity. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience what The Athlete’s Foot has to offer, from the neighborhood, for the neighborhood.”

Speaking exclusively to AtlantaFi.com, Lafone says the vision for the store is firmly routed in Atlanta’s place in the culture.

“We actually have our corporate headquarters above and the intent is a couple of things,” he said. “No. 1, we want to be closer to the consumer. We get 3 million people passing by us right here on the Beltline and so we get that street customer. Because of the school across the street, we also get that sneaker kid, but you also get a more elevated woman who’s getting her nails down and doing yoga,” he said. “Also this is like a community center. For example, on Tuesdays there might be a tutor that tutors local kids. We might have a local entrepreneur taking about how they got their start. We might have a sneaker customization class. The point is to be a part of the community.”

The Athlete’s Foot has proudly partnered with Black-owned businesses to develop the flagship location, enlisting T. Dallas Smith & Co., the largest black African American-owned commercial real estate firm in the country, to continue its standing collaboration with The Athlete’s Foot on finding locations for new stores focused on underserved black and minority communities. J.M. Lee Construction Co., founded by Morehouse graduate Justin Lee, served as the general contractor, while Atlanta artist Aysha Pennerman will be contributing vibrant murals celebrating local culture. These partnerships reflect The Athlete’s Foot’s commitment to diversity and community and supporting Black entrepreneurship in its growth strategy.

Where Is The Athlete’s Foot in Midtown Located?

The Athlete’s Foot in Midtown is located at 931 Monroe Drive, Suite 113E, Atlanta, GA 30308. Here is a map to help you find it.

Nestled in the heart of Midtown, this new establishment promises to be a cornerstone for retail excellence and community engagement.

Strategically located on the iconic Atlanta Beltline and Piedmont Park, the new location aims to integrate seamlessly into the fabric of the neighborhood. The Athlete’s Foot plans to implement community enrichment, sponsorships, educational programming underscoring their commitment to supporting local communities and fostering meaningful connections. Grand opening events and ribbon-cutting festivities took place from September 12th through September 14th.

Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta

Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
• Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta
• Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About

If you’re from Atlanta or a longtime resident, you’ve heard of Big Oomp Records, which is responsible for the success of many rappers in the city. Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson is the name behind the music brand and now he can add the title “restaurateur.”

On Friday, September 6, 2024, Roberson opened Big Oomp Studio Kitchen (BOSK), a smashburger restaurant, in southwest Atlanta. It also has chicken wings, hot dogs, salads and eggrolls, making it one of the more interesting new Atlanta restaurants you want to check out.

What’s On the Menu at Big Oomp Studio Kitchen?

The menu at Big Oomp Studio Kitchen features a variety of smashburgers — huge burgers oozing with melted cheese and stacked with the trimmings. You’ll love the names of them too, which pay homage to to Atlanta like no other. There’s the Big Oomp Burger, the Cascade Burger, the SWATS Burger, AUC Burger and more.

Check out Big Oomp Studio Kitchen’s menu.

During the grand opening, BOSK had Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens to stop by and try the food. In a statement, he said, “Atlanta, we have a new spot for you to check out! We just celebrated the grand opening of BOSK in Southwest Atlanta. Congrats to Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson and his family for bringing their vision to life. BOSK isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a cultural experience, blending food, art, and music in a way that reflects the heart of Atlanta. Here’s to the next chapter in Southwest Atlanta!”

Roberson isn’t done yet. He reportedly has plans to expand BOSK into a neighboring space to add a hookah and cigar lounge, and to open additional locations around the metro Atlanta.

Where Is BOSK Located?

BOSK is located at 510 Fairburn Road, Suite 400, Atlanta. Here is a map to help you find it.

Final Word

In 1996, Big Oomp co-founded Big Oomp Records along with DJ Jelly and MC Assault. Roberson is the president and co-founder of the label. Now, he’s building a food empire as his eatery joins a stable of other celebrity-owned restaurants in Atlanta.

The largest city in the Southeast – Atlanta – has a few things to do as well. An Atlanta weekend is one to remember.

More Articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Where to Enjoy a Live Jazz Brunch In Atlanta
• New Atlanta Restaurants Opening This Year
• The Top Places To Eat In Midtown Atlanta