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In a statement win that silenced doubters and avenged an earlier-season heartbreak, the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs steamrolled the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide 28-7 on Saturday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, securing their second consecutive SEC Championship and a likely first-round bye in the expanded College Football Playoff.
The victory, played out before a raucous crowd of 77,247 decked out in red and black, marks the program’s 16th conference title and ends a frustrating four-game skid against Alabama in SEC title tilts.
Dawgs Repeat as SEC Champs
It was a night of pure dominance for Kirby Smart’s squad, who entered the matchup hungry after dropping a razor-thin 24-21 decision to the Tide back on Sept. 28 in Athens as part of a grueling 2025 schedule.
Stockton Rises To the Occasion
Quarterback Gunner Stockton, stepping up with poise under the bright lights, orchestrated four touchdown drives, tossing three scores while adding 39 rushing yards on 13 carries.
His connection with wideout Zion Branch proved lethal, capped by a 13-yard dart in the fourth quarter that sent the Dawg Nation into a frenzy and sealed the deal at 28-7 with 6:51 remaining.
“It’s all about execution,” Stockton said postgame, his voice hoarse from shouting over the roar of the Dawg Walk earlier in the evening. “We knew we had unfinished business with these guys.
Stout Defense Steps Up Yet Again
The defense gave us short fields, and we just had to cash in.
“That defense? A brick wall. Georgia’s unit, ranked among the nation’s elite all season, suffocated Alabama’s offense, limiting them to a measly 103 total yards and just three plays inside Bulldog territory through three quarters.
The Tide managed a late cosmetic touchdown, but it was too little, too late against a front seven that sacked QB Ty Simpson twice and forced three punts in the opening half alone.
Linebacker CJ Allen led the charge with eight tackles and a forced fumble, while the secondary—bolstered by All-SEC cornerback Daylen Everette’s tip-drill interception in the first quarter—blanketed Alabama’s receivers.
No opponent has topped 21 points against Georgia since mid-October, and Saturday’s shutout through three quarters extended that streak of defensive mastery.The game kicked off with Georgia asserting control early.
After Everette’s pick set up shop at midfield, Stockton needed just six plays to find tight end Oscar Delp for a 12-yard strike, putting the Bulldogs up 7-0 at the 8:12 mark of the first. Alabama’s response? A three-and-out, courtesy of a third-down sack on Simpson that pinned the Tide deep.
The second quarter belonged to the run game, as tailback Nate Frazier broke free for a 22-yard scamper to the house, extending the lead to 14-0. Stockton wasn’t done, however, capping a clock-chewing 14-play, 57-yard march with a 5-yard laser to Dillon Bell just before halftime.
The Bulldogs headed to the locker room with a commanding two-score edge, having held Alabama to 71 yards on 3.6 yards per play.
Halftime adjustments? Alabama tried to air it out, but Georgia’s secondary swatted down any hopes. A 34-yard punt return by Everette set up Stockton’s third TD toss—this one a bullet to Bell again—making it 21-0 midway through the third.
The Tide finally cracked the scoreboard with 12:33 left in the fourth on a short Germie Oti run, but Branch’s breakaway response extinguished any flicker of a comeback.
With the win, Georgia improves to 12-1 (8-1 SEC), having beaten every team on their slate—including this rematch redemption. The Bulldogs’ only blemish? That September slip-up to Bama, now firmly in the rearview as they eye a potential No. 2 seed in Sunday’s CFP reveal.
Smart, trophy in hand during the on-field ceremony, didn’t mince words about his squad’s grit. “This group believed from Day 1. We’ve got the horses, and tonight we galloped. Now, it’s playoff time—let’s keep the streak alive.”
As the confetti rained down and Ludacris—yes, the ATL native—led the Dawgs in a postgame chant, Athens faithful could exhale.
Nine straight wins, a gleaming SEC crystal football, and a path to January glory. The national title chase? It’s wide open, and Georgia looks every bit the favorite.For now, though, savor the moment. Go Dawgs.
Follow AtlantaFi.com for live coverage of the CFP selection show Sunday at noon on ESPN, and stay tuned for playoff bracket breakdowns.
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FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — In a move that promises to reshape the landscape of U.S. soccer — and to deepen metro-Atlanta’s role in the sport — U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) is building what is slated to become the national epicenter of the game in America: the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center (NTC).
The development is part of metro Atlanta’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup and beyond.
What the Center Will Include
- The center will occupy roughly 200 acres in Fayette County, just outside of Atlanta — a location chosen in part for its proximity to Atlanta’s main airport and downtown.
- On the grounds: more than a dozen full-sized outdoor fields, along with indoor courts, training turf fields, and sand/beach-soccer areas — designed to accommodate the 27 national teams (men’s, women’s, youth, and extended teams).
- The facility will also house more than 200,000 square feet of performance areas, high-performance training and analysis zones, lockers, meeting rooms, and USSF’s administrative headquarters.
- Indoor space includes around 100,000 square feet of courts to support training, futsal, extended-team practice, and other activities.
- To serve players, staff, visiting teams, and community programs, the center will also feature facilities such as dining and shared spaces. Food and beverage services will be provided by Levy when the center opens.
Timeline & Progress: From Breakground to Beam Raising to Topping-Out
- The project was officially announced in December 2023 — with Fayette County selected as the site for the new headquarters and training center.
- Groundbreaking occurred April 8, 2024, and at that ceremony the center was named after philanthropist and Atlanta sports-owner Arthur M. Blank, who contributed $50 million toward the build.
- The project is estimated at a cost of over $200 million, with more than 400 new jobs expected to be created in the area.
- On June 6, 2025, the NTC celebrated a topping-out ceremony, marking the completion of the structural framework.
- According to USSF and project leaders, the facility remains on track to open in Spring 2026, coinciding with the lead-up to the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026.
Why Fayetteville — and Why Now
Metro Atlanta was selected over several potential sites for several reasons:
- Convenient access to transportation, including Atlanta’s major international airport — important for national-team travel.
- The presence of vibrant, growing communities around the site — including the nearby mixed-use development and community hub Town at Trilith (adjacent to Trilith Studios) — offering potential for community engagement, housing, commerce, and local support.
- An opportunity to unite all facets of the sport (from elite athletes to grassroots coaches and referees) under one roof: for the first time, USSF will have a single, dedicated national home.
- The timing matches a surge in soccer interest across the United States — particularly as the U.S. prepares to host matches for the 2026 World Cup — making it a strategic moment to centralize operations and build infrastructure that can sustain long-term growth.
What It Means for Atlanta, Fayette County, and American Soccer
- For the Atlanta region and Fayette County, the NTC represents a major economic and civic investment — bringing hundreds of jobs, infrastructure improvements, and a global-scale sports facility to the community.
- For players, coaches, and referees across the country, having a dedicated facility offers consistency, improved training conditions, and access to top-tier amenities that match what elite soccer programs in Europe enjoy.
- For fans, youth soccer clubs, and local communities, the center holds potential beyond elite teams: it could become a hub for youth development programs, coaching clinics, community outreach, and more inclusive access to soccer.
- On the national stage, the NTC is a statement of intent — signaling the growth and ambition of U.S. Soccer as it aims to compete globally and produce world-class talent starting right here in Georgia.
What’s Next — And When You Might Get to See It
Construction continues through 2025. With the structural framework complete and outdoor fields already under development, project leaders say the facility is still on track for Spring 2026.
As opening draws closer, expect USSF to begin sharing more details about public events, tours, and youth-community programming tied to the NTC. For Atlanta and Fayette County, while the fields may open to national teams first, the long-term vision touches much wider — from grassroots soccer to social impact.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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In a gritty, field-goal-fueled battle that evoked the spirit of the rivalry’s storied past, the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs scraped out a 16-9 victory over the No. 23 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on Friday night at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The win extends Georgia’s dominance in the Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate series to eight straight, improving the Bulldogs to 11-1 on the season while dropping the Yellow Jackets to 9-3.
Bulldogs Beat Yellowjackets in Atlanta
The game, played under the lights in front of a raucous home crowd for Tech, was a defensive masterclass with precious few big plays.
Georgia’s lone touchdown—a 7-yard strike from quarterback Gunner Stockton to wide receiver Zachariah Branch in the second quarter—proved to be the difference-maker in a contest decided more by kicking accuracy than offensive fireworks.
Both teams leaned heavily on their specialists, combining for seven field goals, but the Bulldogs’ sustained drives and timely stops sealed the deal.
“We knew coming in it’d be a dogfight,” said Georgia head coach Kirby Smart postgame. “Tech’s got heart, and they made us earn every inch. Proud of our guys for staying composed and grinding it out.”
Georgia Tech struck first in the opening quarter, capitalizing on a short field with a 30-yard field goal from kicker Aidan Birr, giving the Jackets a 3-0 lead after a methodical 7-play, 24-yard drive.
The Bulldogs responded emphatically in the second quarter, outscoring Tech 13-0. Kicker Peyton Woodring opened the scoring with a 22-yarder following a 13-play, 71-yard possession that chewed up over six minutes.
Moments later, Stockton found Branch wide open in the end zone for the game’s only touchdown, extending the lead to 10-3. Woodring capped the quarter with another 30-yard boot, sending Georgia into halftime up 13-3.
The second half saw both defenses dig in deeper, allowing just one field goal apiece in the third. Birr trimmed the deficit to 13-6 with a booming 44-yarder after a quick 6-play drive.
Tension mounted in the fourth as Woodring drilled a career-long 50-yard field goal to push Georgia’s advantage to 16-6 with under 10 minutes remaining.
Tech clawed back late, marching 64 yards in seven plays before Birr’s 41-yarder made it a one-score game at 16-9. But the Bulldogs’ defense stuffed a final Tech drive, forcing a turnover on downs to ice the victory.
Running back Nate Frazier provided the Yellow Jackets’ brightest offensive spark, rumbling for 108 yards on the ground, but Georgia’s front seven limited Tech to just those three field goals. Stockton finished the night efficiently with the key scoring pass, while Branch’s touchdown grab was his only catch but the most impactful one in Bulldog red and black.
For Georgia Tech coach Brent Key, the loss stings in a season of highs. “We fought like hell, but you’ve got to convert when you get opportunities against a team like that,” Key said. “Nate [Frazier] was special tonight—gave us a chance. We’ll learn from this and build.”
The victory keeps Georgia squarely in the College Football Playoff conversation as they await their SEC Championship matchup
Fans back in Athens can breathe a sigh of relief after another hard-fought chapter in one of college football’s fiercest rivalries.
Scoring Summary:
- GT: 3-0 (1Q, Birr 30 FG)
- UGA: 3-3 (2Q, Woodring 22 FG)
- UGA: 10-3 (2Q, Stockton 7 pass to Branch)
- UGA: 13-3 (2Q, Woodring 30 FG)
- UGA: 13-6 (3Q, Birr 44 FG)
- UGA: 16-6 (4Q, Woodring 50 FG)
- UGA: 16-9 (4Q, Birr 41 FG)
Georgia travels to Atlanta next weekend for the SEC title game, while Georgia Tech heads to the ACC Championship. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for full coverage, analysis, and postgame reactions from the Classic City. Go Dawgs!
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The Georgia Tech Yellowjackets have two losses, but the cross-state rival Georgia Bulldogs are determined to add to it. Their 2025 schedule has been tough, but Tech has been tougher. Now comes the No. 3 Dawgs.
How To Watch The Georgia Tech Game
- Gameday: Friday, Nov. 28, 2025
- Teams: #3 Georgia (10-1) vs. #23 Georgia Tech (9-2)
- Game time: 3:30 pm ET
- TV: ABC/ESPN+
- Streaming: FuboTV (Free Trial)
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia Tech vs. Georgia: A History
The rivalry between the Georgia Bulldogs (University of Georgia) and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, known as Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate, is one of the oldest and most intense in college football. The series began in 1893 and has been played almost every year since, with only a few interruptions (primarily during World War II).Key Facts and History (through the 2024 season)
- First meeting: November 4, 1893 (Georgia Tech won 28–6 in Athens)
- Total games played: 119
- All-time record: Georgia leads 71–43–5
- Current streak: Georgia has won 7 in a row (2018–2024)
- Most lopsided game: Georgia 51–0 (1943, in Athens)
Notable Periods
Era Dominant Team Record in that span Notes 1893–1916 Georgia Tech Tech led series heavily Tech was a regional powerhouse 1920s–1940s Georgia Georgia took control Legendary coach Wally Butts era begins 1949–1963 Georgia Tech Tech 10–4 Bobby Dodd’s golden era at Tech 1964–1999 Georgia Roughly even Alternating dominance 2000–2016 Georgia Tech had edge Tech won 9 of 17 Mark Richt era struggles vs Tech 2017–present Georgia dominant Georgia 8–0 (including 2024) Kirby Smart era Recent Results (2015–2024)
Year Winner Score Location 2015 Georgia 13–7 Atlanta 2016 Georgia Tech 28–27 Athens 2017 Georgia 38–7 Atlanta 2018 Georgia 45–21 Athens 2019 Georgia 52–7 Atlanta 2020 Canceled (COVID) 2021 Georgia 45–0 Atlanta 2022 Georgia 37–14 Athens 2023 Georgia 31–23 Atlanta 2024 Georgia 44–42 (8 OT) Athens Memorable Games
- 1978: Georgia 29–28 (Athens) – Georgia scores 22 points in the 4th quarter to win
- 1999: Georgia Tech 51–48 OT (Atlanta) – Tech ends 8-game losing streak in the series
- 2008: Georgia Tech 45–42 (Athens) – Paul Johnson’s triple-option shocks #13 Georgia
- 2014: Georgia Tech 30–24 OT (Athens) – Tech wins SEC East clincher for Georgia
- 2024: Georgia 44–42 (8 OT) (Athens) – Longest game in FBS history (8 overtimes), Georgia survives after blowing a 17-point 4th-quarter lead
Georgia Tech’s 2025 Football Success: A Recipe
Although now with two losses in their last three games, Tech’s success stems from a combination of coaching stability, player talent, cultural shifts, and strategic investments, transforming a program that had back-to-back 7-6 seasons into a legitimate ACC title and College Football Playoff contender.Key Reasons for the Turnaround
Momentum from Upsets and Favorable Schedule:
Signature wins like the Clemson field-stormer and a 35-20 rivalry triumph over Virginia Tech have built camaraderie and fan energy, with attendance upticks reflecting national buzz. A soft ACC slate (avoiding Miami and SMU) provides a clear path forward, though Key keeps focus on the present ahead of Saturday’s homecoming vs. Syracuse.
Brent Key’s Coaching Philosophy and Staff Continuity
In his third full season as head coach (and a former Tech offensive lineman), Key has instilled a culture of relentless toughness, discipline, commitment, and execution—core principles drawn from his time under Nick Saban at Alabama. He emphasizes weekly preparation to combat complacency, using metaphors like the perils of descending Mount Everest to keep the team grounded despite rising rankings.
Offensive coordinators Buster Faulkner and Chris Weinke (both in their third year) have crafted a pro-style scheme that maximizes balance, while new defensive coordinator Blake Gideon has shored up the unit, limiting foes to under 25 points in most games and forcing key turnovers (e.g., two interceptions vs. Clemson). Key’s 7-1 record against ranked ACC opponents underscores this sustainable approach.
Haynes King’s Dual-Threat Leadership at Quarterback
Transfer QB Haynes King (from Texas A&M) has been the on-field catalyst, completing 80.5% of his passes for 1,175 yards and five TDs with just one INT, while adding nine rushing TDs (including 156 yards and three scores vs. Colorado).
His grit—powering through defenders for crucial scores and embodying Key’s “toughness awards” ethos—has made him a dark-horse Heisman candidate.
King’s off-field dedication, like sleeping in Bobby Dodd Stadium during camp, fosters team buy-in and has elevated the rushing attack to 200+ yards in multiple games.
Balanced Offense and Transfer Depth
The Yellow Jackets boast a punishing ground game led by RBs Malachi Hosley (transfer from Penn; 129 yards and a TD vs. Virginia Tech) and Jamal Haynes, complemented by explosive receivers like Eric Rivers (from FIU; 77 yards and a TD vs. Wake Forest) and Malik Rutherford.
With 22 incoming transfers bolstering the roster, the offense has racked up advantages in first downs (e.g., 27-19 vs. Colorado) and time of possession (often 30+ minutes). Special teams shine too, with kicker Aidan Birr nailing long field goals (e.g., 55 yards vs. Clemson) and a blocked FG returned for a TD vs. Gardner-Webb.
Institutional Investments Elevating the Program
Under President Ángel Cabrera and new AD Ryan Alpert, Georgia Tech launched a $500 million “Full Steam Ahead” campaign to upgrade facilities like Bobby Dodd Stadium and secured a lucrative Under Armour NIL deal (six times the prior value).
Playing annually at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (including vs. Georgia on November 28) generates $10 million in revenue for NIL and House settlement obligations, attracting top talent in the transfer era. This positions athletics as the “front porch” of the school, blending academic excellence (team GPA >3.0) with the Total Person Program for career development—making Tech a compelling recruiting pitch.
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Atlanta’s own Elle Duncan is poised to redefine streaming sports coverage as the new face of Netflix’s burgeoning sports division, according to The Athletic.
The Emmy-nominated anchor, who cut her teeth in the Peach State’s bustling media scene, is reportedly leaving her prominent role at ESPN to helm the streaming giant’s push into live sports and analysis, sources confirmed to The Athletic.
Elle Duncan: The New Face of Netflix Sports?
For Atlantans, Duncan’s ascent feels like a homecoming story on steroids. Born and raised in the city she now calls home, Duncan launched her broadcasting career right here in 2003 as a 20-year-old intern for the syndicated sports talk radio show 2 Live Stews on 790/The Zone.
What started as fetching coffee and screening calls quickly evolved into on-air contributions, where her sharp wit and infectious energy caught the ear of producers. “Atlanta gave me my first break, and I’ll always be grateful for the grit and grind of starting out in a city that demands excellence,” Duncan reflected in a 2021 interview, crediting the local airwaves for honing her unfiltered style.
By 2005, Duncan had leveled up to a seven-year gig at V-103 (WVEE-FM), Atlanta’s powerhouse urban radio station, where she juggled traffic reporting with entertainment anchoring.
Listeners tuning in for morning rush-hour updates on I-85 snarls were just as likely to hear her dishing on the latest Falcons drama or Hawks highlights. She even moonlighted as a sideline reporter for the Atlanta Hawks, bringing her charisma courtside during the team’s gritty playoff runs.
espnpressroom.com It was a far cry from the polished ESPN sets she’d later command, but those early days in Atlanta’s competitive media market — sandwiched between radio booths and traffic choppers — built the foundation for her national stardom.
Elle Duncan: From Atlanta To Bristol
A University of West Georgia journalism grad, Duncan carried her Southern roots to Boston in 2012, joining NESN as a sports anchor and reporter. There, she covered everything from Red Sox heartbreak to Bruins triumphs, earning her stripes before ESPN came calling in 2016.
Since then, she’s been a fixture on SportsCenter, co-hosting the 6 p.m. edition and launching hits like the YouTube series First Take Her Take alongside Andraya Carter. Her bold takes on women’s sports, social justice in athletics, and unapologetic commentary have made her a fan favorite — and occasionally a lightning rod, as seen in recent backlash over an on-air quip.
Now, at 42, Duncan is betting on the future of sports media with Netflix, a platform that’s aggressively expanding beyond binge-worthy docs like The Last Dance into live events. Think NFL games, tennis majors, and perhaps even a slice of the NBA — all under her steady hand. While details of her exact title and start date remain under wraps, insiders say she’ll oversee content strategy, on-air talent, and the streamer’s signature blend of storytelling and spectacle.
sports.yahoo.com Her departure leaves ESPN’s SportsCenter lineup in flux, but for Duncan, it’s a chance to pioneer in a space where streaming meets sports like never before.From dodging potholes on 11 Alive’s traffic desk to anchoring Netflix’s sports empire, Elle Duncan’s journey is peak Atlanta: resilient, innovative, and impossible to ignore.
As the city that launched her watches with pride, one thing’s clear — the girl from Georgia is about to take the world stage by storm. Stay tuned, folks; this is just the tip of the binge.
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FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — In a devastating blow to the Atlanta Falcons’ already struggling season, quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been ruled out for the remainder of 2025 following confirmation of a partially torn ACL in his left knee.
The team announced Wednesday that the second-year pro will undergo surgery, effectively ending his campaign and thrusting veteran Kirk Cousins back into the starting role.
Penix Sidelined, Kirk Cousins’ Return
The Falcons’ initial statement on Monday indicated Penix would land on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four weeks after suffering the injury during last week’s matchup.
However, lingering concerns about the knee’s severity prompted the additional consultation, which delivered the harsh verdict.
“After further medical evaluation, it has been determined Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will undergo season-ending surgery for a partially torn ACL,” read the team’s official release.
With Penix out, Cousins steps in as the Falcons (3-7) prepare for a critical NFC South showdown against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome.
Easton Stick is expected to serve as the backup, drawing from his role on the practice squad as the emergency third-stringer.
Stick, reflecting on the abrupt shift, shared his empathy for his teammate during Monday’s media session.
“The thing that’s on the top of my mind the most is how (Penix is) feeling and how he’s doing,” Stick said. “That’s a tough, tough deal however it turns out. But yeah, Sunday looks different. Outside of Sunday, not much changes.”
Head coach Raheem Morris and Cousins are set to field questions from the press later today, offering further insight into the transition. For Morris, the focus remains on rallying the squad amid the heartbreak.
“Obviously, it hurts your heart when your quarterback goes down,” Morris acknowledged Monday. “Anybody in your football team… that’s definitely always one of those things that’s going to be harmful. But you got to recenter, you got to focus. You got to go with the next-man-up mentality. You got to lean on other people, other places, to be able to go find a way to get those things done.”
Penix’s 2025 stats paint a picture of promise cut short: In nine starts, he completed 166 of 276 passes (60.1%) for 1,982 yards, nine touchdowns, and just three interceptions — averaging 220.2 yards per game.
He sat out Week 8’s loss to the Miami Dolphins with a bone bruise in the same knee, though Morris couldn’t confirm if the issues are connected.
Selected eighth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Penix was originally tabbed to sit and learn behind Cousins as a rookie.
That timeline accelerated in Week 16 of his debut year due to the veteran’s inconsistencies, propelling Penix into the starting lineup to close out 2024 and carry into this season. His college career at Washington was marred by right-knee troubles, but this marks a fresh challenge on the opposite side.
The injury compounds a dismal year for Atlanta, who sit dead last in the NFC South at 0-3 in the division and boast slimmer-than-slim playoff odds — under 1% per The New York Times’ simulator — with seven games remaining. Still, Morris struck an optimistic chord: “Just hurting for the young man. We’ll move forward.”
As the Falcons navigate this pivot, Dirty Bird fans will be watching closely to see if Cousins can spark a late-season surge. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports for updates from today’s presser and beyond.
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In a city where “Peachtree” isn’t just a street but a state of mind, the Atlanta Hawks are stitching that spirit right into their uniforms.
On Wednesday, the team unveiled its 2025-26 Nike NBA City Edition jerseys — a vibrant revival of the beloved Peachtree design from the 2019-20 season — paying homage to the 71 streets across Atlanta that share the name.
Hawks To Rock Peachtree Edition Jerseys Soon
And Hawks fans won’t have to wait long to see them in action: the fresh threads will make their on-court debut next Tuesday, November 18, when the squad hosts the Detroit Pistons at State Farm Arena.
The Peachtree City Edition isn’t just apparel; it’s a wearable tribute to Atlanta’s “Forever Fresh” identity, blending the city’s bold culture, unapologetic confidence and relentless forward momentum. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Peachtree Street — the artery that pulses through the heart of downtown — the jersey unites all 71 Peachtree-named thoroughfares into one global statement of ATL pride.
“Peachtree” arches across the chest in a sharp, block-style font, replacing “Atlanta” for a sleek, street-level vibe that’s equal parts heritage and hype.
Visually, the design pops with a color palette that’s as Georgia as it gets: Fresh Peach evokes the fruit on every Peach State license plate and the warm glow of those sun-kissed streets; Ascension White symbolizes the Hawks’ championship chase and the city’s upward trajectory; and Infinity Black captures Atlanta’s ambitious, ever-evolving spirit.
Crisp trim in Fresh Peach and Ascension White lines the collar and side panels, while bold numbers and a heritage Hawks logo keep things sharp and purposeful.
Even the shorts get in on the action with curving leg stripes in Heritage Blue and Buttery Brown, tying back to the team’s classic roots. A subtle belt buckle motif nods to the markers that connect every Atlantan under the Peach umbrella.
This isn’t the first time the Hawks have rocked the Peachtree look — it lit up State Farm Arena back in 2019-20 as a fan-favorite ode to the city’s undeniable swagger. Now, with tweaks like the updated wordmark and modern Paze℠ checkout patch on the left sleeve, it’s evolved into something even more ATL-coded for the 2025-26 campaign.
The full City Edition package also includes a matching hardwood court design, transforming the arena floor into a canvas of Peachtree-inspired energy.Hawks faithful can snag the jerseys now at the official team shop, with options ranging from Trae Young’s Swingman edition to authentic on-court replicas starting at $110.
They’ll be worn in 10 home games this season, kicking off with that Pistons matchup on Nov. 18 and rolling through highlights like the Martin Luther King Jr. Day tilt against the Milwaukee Bucks on Jan. 19.
Final Word
From music to food to basketball, Peachtree represents how Atlanta continues to shape culture in ways that are bold, fresh and always True To Atlanta. Throughout the season, we will continue to uplift our community and celebrate the individuals, organizations and businesses that represent our city.
As the Hawks gear up for another run at the playoffs under head coach Quin Snyder, these jerseys serve as more than just a uniform — they’re a rallying cry for a city that’s always been ahead of the curve. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Hawks Nation. Peachtree is calling, and it’s time to run the streets in style.
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In a historic move that cements the city’s status as the beating heart of American soccer, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has officially awarded an expansion franchise to Atlanta.
Backed by billionaire philanthropist Arthur M. Blank and operated by AMB Sports and Entertainment, the new club will join the league as its 17th team and begin play in the 2028 season, with home matches at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
NWSL Set to Kick Off in 2028
The announcement, made Tuesday evening during the star-studded “Empower Her, Inspire All” event at The Interlock in Midtown Atlanta, drew cheers from a crowd of passionate fans, local leaders, and soccer dignitaries.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman hailed the addition as a “game-changer,” praising Atlanta’s “energy, diversity, and ambition” that will propel women’s professional soccer to new heights.
“This is a city that knows how to win,” Berman declared, spotlighting Atlanta’s proven track record with Blank’s other ventures, including the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and the wildly successful MLS powerhouse Atlanta United.
Blank, whose family foundation is seeding a new NWSL Foundation focused on women’s athlete health and performance, echoed the excitement.
“It is my hope that this club will ignite something powerful in everyone who watches, especially young people, and light a spark that says if they can do it, so can I,” he said.
The franchise comes at a league-record expansion fee of $165 million, with Blank committing an additional $330 million in investments to build a world-class operation.
This marks the NWSL’s first expansion since the additions of Boston Legacy FC and Denver Summit FC, both slated for 2026, and underscores the league’s rapid growth amid the global surge in women’s soccer following the U.S. Women’s National Team’s success and the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A New Era at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Fans can look forward to high-energy matches under the retractable roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which will be modified for soccer with a capacity of about 28,000—perfect for creating an intimate yet electric atmosphere.
The venue, already a soccer shrine that hosted a record 50,000 fans for a U.S. women’s national team friendly in 2024, will welcome the new team starting in 2028.
Plans are underway for a state-of-the-art training facility dedicated to the NWSL club, ensuring top-tier support for players.
AMBSE is also in the early stages of crafting a team name and brand identity, with direct input from Atlanta and Georgia’s soccer community—no timeline has been set, but the process promises to reflect the city’s vibrant spirit.
Leadership searches are already ramping up, led by Blank and AMBSE executives with input from sports consultancy Sportsology, to assemble a dedicated staff for day-to-day operations.
Reviving a Storied Soccer Tradition
This isn’t Atlanta’s first dance with women’s professional soccer.
The city was once home to the Atlanta Beat in the early 2000s, part of the now-defunct Women’s United Soccer Association and Women’s Professional Soccer leagues.
Though those teams folded amid league challenges, Atlanta’s fans have always shown up in force, setting the stage for this triumphant return.
Local leaders couldn’t contain their enthusiasm. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone joined the celebration, with Cone calling Blank a “consistent and passionate supporter of soccer at every level.”
Atlanta Sports Council President Dan Corso added that the move “reinforces the city’s standing as the center of the soccer world in America.” 6
As metro Atlanta continues to build its soccer empire—with Atlanta United’s MLS triumphs, the MLS Next Pro squad Atlanta United 2, and eight World Cup matches on deck for 2026—this NWSL addition feels like destiny.
Blank himself aims to replicate Atlanta United’s record-breaking launch, which was dubbed the most successful expansion in U.S. sports history.
Final Word
For now, the focus is on the future: a team that will inspire, unite, and dominate on the pitch.
As Berman put it, Atlanta has “all the ingredients to become one of the league’s most dynamic markets.” Soccer City, USA, just got a whole lot brighter.
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The University of Georgia Bulldogs punched their ticket to the expanded College Football Playoff conversation in new polling released this week, landing at No. 5 in the initial playoff rankings of the 2025 season released by the CFP Selection Committee.
The reveal, aired live on ESPN at 8 p.m., showcased a powerhouse start for the Southeastern Conference, with three of the top four spots claimed by SEC squads.
Georgia #5 in CFP Rankings
Ohio State edged out undefeated Indiana for the top spot, but Texas A&M (No. 3) and Alabama (No. 4) bookended the Big Ten duo, setting the stage for what could be the most SEC-heavy playoff field in history.
For Bulldog Nation, the No. 5 ranking is a validation of Kirby Smart’s gritty squad, now 7-1 after a hard-fought 24-20 victory over Florida last Saturday. Georgia’s lone blemish—a narrow 31-28 loss to Alabama on Oct. 4—hasn’t derailed their momentum, with the committee citing the Dawgs’ stout defense and road dominance as key factors in their placement.
“The SEC is the toughest league in the country, bar none,” Smart said in a pre-ranking press conference, making a fervent case for the conference’s depth. “Our guys have been battle-tested every week, and that’s what prepares you for something like this.”
While Smart’s comments came ahead of the reveal, they rang true as the committee rewarded the SEC’s grueling slate, slotting Ole Miss at No. 6 behind Georgia.The full top 25, based on games through Nov.
Rank Team Record 1 Ohio State 8-0 2 Indiana 9-0 3 Texas A&M 8-0 4 Alabama 7-1 5 Georgia 7-1 6 Ole Miss 8-1 7 BYU 8-0 8 Texas Tech 8-1 9 Oregon 7-1 10 Notre Dame 6-2 11 Texas 7-2 12 Oklahoma 7-2 13 Utah 7-2 14 Virginia 8-1 15 Louisville 7-1 16 Vanderbilt 7-2 17 Georgia Tech 8-1 18 Miami 6-2 19 Southern California 6-2 20 Iowa 6-2 21 Michigan 7-2 22 Missouri 6-2 23 Washington 6-2 24 Pittsburgh 7-2 25 Tennessee 6-3 In Athens, the news sparked immediate jubilation. Sanford Stadium’s iconic hedges seemed to buzz with energy as local bars like The World Famous and Last Resort filled with red-and-black clad fans toasting the reveal. “We’ve been waiting for this moment,” said UGA senior Emily Hankerson, a nursing major hoisting a celebratory drink downtown. “No. 5 feels right— we’re locked in, but we’ve got work to do.”
Rankings Boost Athens, Smart Takes Measured Approach
Social media lit up with reactions, from@UGAfootballLive’s post declaring “Georgia checks in at No. 5” to fans debating bracket implications.
One projection circulating online has the fifth-seeded Bulldogs hosting a first-round clash against No. 12 Memphis, with a potential quarterfinal rematch against Alabama looming.
The expanded 12-team format guarantees the top four conference champions byes into the quarterfinals, while seeds 5-8 host on-campus games.
Georgia, fresh off a bye week, eyes a critical SEC matchup at No. 17 Georgia Tech on Nov. 15—a rivalry win could solidify their seeding and keep playoff dreams alive.
With two more rankings drops ahead (Nov. 12 and 19) before conference championships, Smart emphasized focus during Monday’s practice.
“Rankings are nice, but they’re just noise,” he told reporters. “We control what we can—win out, and the rest takes care of itself.”
For Athens, a town where football pulses like a second heartbeat, the No. 5 nod is more than a number. It’s a spark for the stretch run, fueling late-night debates at Jittery Joe’s and pre-game rituals on Lumpkin Street.
As the Dawgs chase a third national title in four years, the Classic City is geared up for the ride.
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In a swift move to shore up their special teams woes, the Atlanta Falcons are signing veteran kicker Zane Gonzalez to the roster following an impressive workout on Tuesday morning, according to multiple sources, including NFL Network’s Adam Schefter.
The 30-year-old Gonzalez, a nine-year NFL veteran with stints alongside the Arizona Cardinals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and most recently the Washington Commanders, steps in at a critical juncture for the Falcons.
Atlanta’s kicking situation has been a rollercoaster this season, and the team’s decision to part ways with Parker Romo underscores the urgency to find stability ahead of a pivotal stretch in the NFC South race.
Falcons Change Kickers After Heartbreaking Patriots Loss
Romo, a second-year pro out of undrafted free agency, is being waived to make room for Gonzalez. The 24-year-old showed flashes of potential in his brief tenure with the Falcons, converting 11 of 14 field goal attempts (78.6%) since joining the team in training camp.
However, his inconsistency reared its head in the most painful way possible during Sunday’s agonizing 23-22 loss to the New England Patriots at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.With the Falcons trailing by a point in the final minute, Romo lined up for what could have been the game-winning extra point after a Kirk Cousins touchdown strike to Drake London.
The kick sailed wide left, sealing Atlanta’s fourth one-score defeat of the season and dropping them to 4-5 on the year. The miss not only cost the Falcons a potential victory but also highlighted the razor-thin margins in a division where every point feels like a lifeline.
Gonzalez: Ace Gets Fresh Start in Atlanta
Gonzalez brings a proven track record of clutch performance to Flowery Branch. Drafted in the seventh round by the Cardinals in 2017 out of Arizona State, he holds a career field goal percentage of 82.4% (119-for-144), including a league-leading 96.9% success rate in 2021 with Tampa Bay.
Last season with Washington, he went 18-for-21 before being released in the preseason shuffle. At 6-foot, 202 pounds, Gonzalez is known for his strong leg and poise under pressure—qualities Atlanta desperately needs as they prepare for an international game in Berlin against the Indianapolis Colts.
The signing comes on the heels of Atlanta’s ongoing kicking carousel. The team entered the season with Younghoe Koo as their reliable incumbent, but when it missed a kick late in the game during the first month of the season, he was canned, thrusting Romo into the spotlight.
Now, with Gonzalez in the fold, the Falcons hope to avoid any further drama and refocus on their playoff push. Atlanta sits in third place in the NFC South behind the division-leading Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers.
Romo’s future remains uncertain, but his poise and potential could land him on another roster or the practice squad circuit.
Final Word
For now, all eyes are on Gonzalez’s first practice reps and whether he can deliver the consistency that’s eluded Atlanta’s kickers this fall.
Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Insider for updates on the Falcons’ roster moves and injury reports as the week unfolds. Rise up, Atlanta—what do you think of the Gonzalez gamble? Sound off in the comments below.
