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As Atlanta’s go-to source for local news and events, we’re excited to bring you this comprehensive guide to catching today’s College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal action.
With the expanded 12-team format in full swing, January 1 marks a thrilling triple-header of games that could shape the path to the national championship.
Local fans have extra reason to tune in, as the Georgia Bulldogs take center stage in the evening matchup against Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl. Whether you’re watching from home, streaming on the go, or joining a lively watch party in the city, we’ve got all the details you need to make the most of game day.
Today’s CFP Quarterfinal Schedule
The quarterfinals kicked off yesterday with the Cotton Bowl, but today’s slate features three high-stakes games broadcast exclusively on ESPN. Here’s the lineup:
- Capital One Orange Bowl: No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. No. 5 Oregon Ducks
Kickoff: 12:00 p.m. ET
Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
This early game pits a defensive-minded Texas Tech squad against Oregon’s high-powered offense in what promises to be a stylistic clash. 13 - Rose Bowl Game Presented by Prudential: No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers vs. No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
Location: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, California
Top-seeded Indiana, riding an undefeated season, faces a battle-tested Alabama team looking to upset the bracket in the iconic “Granddaddy of Them All.” 1 - Allstate Sugar Bowl: No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs vs. No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
Location: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
This SEC showdown has massive local appeal for Atlanta-area fans, with Georgia aiming to advance under head coach Kirby Smart against Lane Kiffin’s explosive Ole Miss squad. Expect fireworks in a game that’s just a short drive from home for many Dawgs supporters. 30
All times are Eastern, and weather shouldn’t be a factor since the Orange and Sugar Bowls are indoors, while the Rose Bowl’s Southern California setting typically offers clear skies.
How to Watch on TV and Cable in Atlanta
If you’re settling in at home, ESPN is your one-stop channel for all three games. In the Atlanta metro area, here’s where to find it on major providers:
- Comcast Xfinity: Channel 35 (SD) or 835 (HD)
- AT&T U-verse: Channel 602 (SD) or 1602 (HD)
- Spectrum: Channel 31 (SD) or 131 (HD)
- DirecTV: Channel 206
- Dish Network: Channel 140
For over-the-air viewers, ESPN isn’t available without cable, but you can check local affiliates for any simulcasts (though unlikely for CFP games). If you have a smart TV, download the ESPN app and log in with your cable credentials for seamless viewing.
Announcers for the day include Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy on the call for the Sugar Bowl, with Molly McGrath on the sidelines—familiar voices for SEC fans.
Streaming Options
Cord-cutters rejoice: There are plenty of ways to stream the games without traditional cable. All CFP action is available live on the ESPN app or ESPN.com, but you’ll need a subscription or login from a participating provider. Here’s a breakdown of popular services that carry ESPN:
- ESPN App/ESPN Unlimited: Free with a cable login or as part of select pay-TV packages like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV. This is the most direct way to stream on your phone, tablet, or smart device.
- Fubo: Starts at $79.99/month; includes ESPN and offers a free trial. Great for sports fans with 4K streaming options for select games.
- Hulu + Live TV: $76.99/month; bundles ESPN with Disney+ and Hulu for added value.
- YouTube TV: $72.99/month; user-friendly interface and unlimited DVR.
- Sling TV (Orange Plan): $40/month; the cheapest option that includes ESPN, perfect if you’re just in it for college football.
- DirecTV Stream: $69.99/month; solid for Atlanta locals with regional sports add-ons.
For international viewers or those traveling, a VPN like ExpressVPN can help access U.S. streams. Note that blackouts are rare for national CFP broadcasts, but always check your service’s app for confirmation.
Local Watch Parties and Best Bars in Atlanta
Nothing beats the energy of watching with fellow fans, especially for the Georgia game. Atlanta’s sports bar scene is buzzing today, with many spots decked out in red and black. Here are some top recommendations based on local vibes, screen setups, and game-day specials:
- Park Tavern in Piedmont Park: Hosting a “Hair of the Dawg” New Year’s Day Watch Party with massive indoor/outdoor screens, sound on for all games, bottomless mimosas, and a heated patio. Doors open at 11 a.m.—perfect for the full slate. Expect a mix of CFP fans and locals recovering from New Year’s Eve.
- The Nook on Piedmont Park: A go-to for college football with multiple TVs, a covered patio, and game-day eats like totchos. It’s especially popular among out-of-town alumni groups.
- Marlow’s Tavern (Multiple Locations, e.g., Vinings or Midtown): Upscale pub fare with plenty of screens. Their Cumberland location is a hotspot for SEC games, offering specials like $5 drafts during touchdowns.
- Woofs Atlanta (Midtown): A lively sports bar with 30+ TVs, known for its inclusive atmosphere and strong drinks. Great for groups watching the entire day.
- Wicked Wolf (Downtown): High-energy spot with giant projectors, wings, and beer towers. It’s a favorite for big games, with no cover charge today.
- AMG Lounge (Buckhead): Newer venue with top ratings for NFL watch parties, but equally suited for CFP—think plush seating and craft cocktails.
- College Football Hall of Fame (Downtown Atlanta): Not just a museum— they’re hosting a free viewing event in their atrium with big screens, interactive exhibits, and food trucks. A family-friendly option to catch the games while soaking in football history.
For Georgia-specific watch parties, check alumni groups like the Atlanta Dawg Club, which often gathers at spots like Hudson Grille in Midtown. Reservations are recommended, as spots fill up fast on playoff days.
If you’re hosting at home, local spots like Your 3rd Spot in West Midtown offer takeout packages with game-ready platters.
Radio and Audio Options
If you’re driving around Atlanta or prefer audio commentary, tune in via radio:
- National Broadcast: ESPN Radio (available on SiriusXM Channel 80 or the ESPN app) with full coverage of all games.
- Local for Georgia Game: The Bulldogs’ flagship station is 680 The Fan (WXIA-AM) in Atlanta, with Scott Howard, Eric Zeier, and D.J. Shockley on the call. Stream via the Georgia Bulldogs app or TuneIn.
- Ole Miss Feed: For Rebels fans, check 97.3 FM in Atlanta affiliates or the Ole Miss Sports Network app.
Additional Tips for Atlanta Fans
- Traffic and Parking: If heading to a bar near Piedmont Park or Downtown, use MARTA or rideshares—post-New Year’s traffic could be heavy, especially around evening rush for the Sugar Bowl.
- Betting and Odds: Georgia is favored by 6.5 points with an over/under of 55.5—check apps like FanDuel or DraftKings for live lines (legal in Georgia via mobile).
- Family-Friendly Viewing: The College Football Hall of Fame event is ideal for kids, or stream at home with ESPN’s multi-view feature to flip between games.
- Post-Game Coverage: Stick with us here at AtlantaFi.com for recaps, highlights, and analysis—especially if Georgia advances to the semifinals at the Peach Bowl on January 9 right here in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Whether you’re a die-hard Dawg or just love the playoff drama, today’s games are must-see TV. Go Bulldogs, and happy New Year from all of us in Atlanta!
- Capital One Orange Bowl: No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. No. 5 Oregon Ducks
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In a major boost for college sports in the heart of the city, Georgia State University has officially begun construction on its new baseball stadium, bringing the Panthers baseball program back to downtown Atlanta and adding another key venue to the city’s rich sports landscape.
The $15.4 million project is rising on the historic grounds of the former Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium — the legendary ballpark that once hosted the Atlanta Braves (1966-1996), the Atlanta Falcons, the Atlanta Chiefs, the Peach Bowl, and even Olympic baseball during the 1996 Summer Games.
Georgia State Breaks Ground on New Baseball Stadium
Most famously, it’s where Hank Aaron smashed his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974.
Currently a parking lot adjacent to Center Parc Credit Union Stadium (home of GSU football), the site sits just steps from the university’s downtown campus, the new GSU Convocation Center (home to men’s and women’s basketball), and the surrounding Summerhill neighborhood.
When completed, the new facility will create a true “athletics village” in the area, enhancing fan access and community engagement right in the center of Atlanta’s sports scene.
The stadium will feature approximately 1,000 seats, a modern turf playing surface, expanded dugouts, upgraded batting cages and bullpens, advanced technology infrastructure, and improved seating and hospitality areas.
AI rendering of new GSU baseball stadium.
To honor the site’s storied past, GSU is relocating the iconic Hank Aaron statue from the entrance of Center Parc Credit Union Stadium to the new baseball stadium’s main entrance.Plans also include a commemorative marker in left field recognizing the exact spot where Aaron’s historic homer cleared the wall.
“This stadium represents more than just a place to play baseball,” said Georgia State President Dr. M. Brian Blake. “It connects Georgia State to Atlanta’s sports legacy and creates a vibrant future for our program and community.”
The project received its final green light when the City of Atlanta approved the Land Disturbance Permit on November 18, 2025.
Construction crews have already mobilized equipment to the site, with completion targeted for fall 2026 — in time for the Panthers to potentially open the 2027 season in their new home.
The move brings baseball much closer to campus, replacing the current GSU Baseball Complex in Decatur (about 12 miles away), which has served as the Panthers’ home since 1986.
This new venue joins Atlanta’s impressive lineup of sports facilities, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium (home of the NFL’s Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United), Truist Park (home of the MLB’s Braves), State Farm Arena (home of the NBA’s Hawks), and the nearby Center Parc Credit Union Stadium and GSU Convocation Center.
It’s a welcome addition for local fans, student-athletes, and the Summerhill community, further solidifying downtown Atlanta as a hub for both professional and collegiate sports.
Donations continue to support the project, with naming opportunities still available for the stadium and playing field (pending approval from the University System of Georgia Board of Regents).
Final Word
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more developments as this exciting new chapter in Atlanta sports history takes shape!
For more information, visit georgiastatesports.com. Go Panthers!
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ATLANTA — As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, owner Arthur Blank is taking decisive action.
With the team sitting at 6-9 and officially eliminated from playoff contention for the eighth straight year, Blank has enlisted the services of consulting firm Sportology to conduct a thorough “health check” on the organization’s football operations.
Falcons To Bring in Consultant To Gauge Football Operations
Sportology, founded by former Chelsea FC executive Mike Forde and featuring former Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith as a key partner, has previously worked with Blank’s group on projects including Atlanta United and the new NWSL expansion team.
Now, the firm is turning its attention to the Falcons amid mounting questions about the team’s direction.
The review, first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, comes at a critical juncture. The Falcons face uncertainty at quarterback beyond veteran Kirk Cousins, whose future remains unclear despite solid recent performances filling in for the injured Michael Penix Jr. Key decisions loom for star players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, all navigating contract situations.
Compounding the challenges are salary cap constraints and the absence of a 2026 first-round draft pick, traded away in previous deals.
Head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot are squarely in the spotlight. Reports indicate Blank will evaluate the entire football operation at season’s end, with buzz around the league suggesting potential changes could be on the horizon.
While Blank has historically shown patience, the prolonged playoff drought — the longest in franchise history — has amplified calls for accountability.
Fans have expressed a mix of frustration and dark humor online, with social media threads highlighting the irony of yet another offseason overhaul looming. One common sentiment: “Same old Falcons,” punctuated by memes of endless rebuild cycles.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Earns Rave Reviews
On a brighter note, Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues to shine as one of the NFL’s premier venues.
The iconic halo board, retractable roof, and fan-friendly concessions — including top-rated food options and affordable pricing — consistently earn rave reviews from visitors and locals alike. Even in tough seasons, the stadium remains a point of pride for Atlanta sports enthusiasts, as well as foodies who love cheap food.
Final Word
As the Falcons close out the 2025 campaign with games against the Rams and beyond, all eyes will be on Blank’s next moves.
Will this external review spark the changes needed to end the postseason drought?
Falcons Nation can only hope 2026 brings more than just another evaluation. Rise up — or reset? Time will tell.
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GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Atlanta Falcons (6-9) picked up their second consecutive victory on Sunday, holding off the Arizona Cardinals (3-12) for a hard-fought 26-19 road win at State Farm Stadium.
Despite falling behind 10-0 early, Atlanta rallied behind strong performances from Kirk Cousins, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts to improve to 6-9 on the season.
Falcons Come Back To Beat Arizona
While playoff hopes are long gone, the Falcons showed resilience and flashed potential heading into the final weeks. Here are five key takeaways from the victory over the Cards.
1. Bijan Robinson Makes Franchise History in His Home State
Bijan Robinson put on a show in Arizona, his home state, racking up over 170 yards from scrimmage (including a touchdown reception) to surpass 2,000 yards from scrimmage for the season. This milestone makes him just the third Falcon ever to hit that mark, joining legends William Andrews (1981 and 1983) and Jamal Anderson (1998).
Robinson’s explosive plays, including big runs and catches, were the engine of the offense. He’s proving week after week why he’s one of the most dynamic backs in the league — and a building block for the future.
2. Kirk Cousins Bounces Back with Multi-TD Performance
After some uneven stretches this season, Kirk Cousins delivered when it mattered most, throwing for two touchdowns and adding a rushing score on a QB sneak. He went 21-of-35 despite an early interception that put Atlanta in a hole.
Cousins spread the ball effectively, connecting with his playmakers and managing the game in the second half. This kind of veteran poise is exactly what the Falcons need as they evaluate the quarterback position moving forward.
3. Kyle Pitts Is Heating Up at the Perfect Time
Tight end Kyle Pitts continued his recent surge, hauling in key catches — including a touchdown — and converting multiple third downs. Pitts was a matchup nightmare for the Cardinals, and his chemistry with Cousins is clicking.
With four TD catches in the last two games, Pitts is reminding everyone of his elite potential. If he finishes the season strong, it could silence some of the trade rumors and solidify him as a core piece.
4. Defense Steps Up in Crunch Time
The Falcons’ defense bent but didn’t break, limiting Arizona’s high-powered tight end Trey McBride to just a handful of catches and forcing missed field goals from the Cardinals. Rookie Brandon Dorlus notched a big sack, and the unit as a whole pressured backup QB Jacoby Brissett.
The game-sealer came from cornerback C.J. Henderson, who picked off Brissett late in the fourth quarter to ice the win — his first interception since 2022. In a season full of defensive struggles, these opportunistic plays are encouraging signs.
5. Third-Down Efficiency and Red-Zone Execution Win Games
Atlanta entered the game ranked near the bottom in third-down conversions but flipped the script, going 7-of-14 (a season-high 50%). Much of that success came through Pitts and the passing game.
The Falcons also went 3-for-3 in the red zone, while Arizona struggled mightily inside the 20. Small details like these turned a potential loss into a victory, showing growth under head coach Raheem Morris even in a lost season.
The Falcons return home for a Monday night matchup against the surging Los Angeles Rams in Week 17. With pride on the line, Atlanta will look to build on this momentum and spoil some playoff hopes. Rise Up!
More from AtlantaFi.com:
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In a homecoming performance for the ages, Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson eclipsed 2,000 yards from scrimmage for the season, powering his team to a hard-fought 26-19 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at State Farm Stadium.
The third-year star from Tucson finished with 168 all-purpose yards — 76 rushing on 16 carries and 92 receiving on seven catches — including a pivotal 13-yard touchdown reception that sparked Atlanta’s rally from a 10-point deficit.
Robinson Has Big Game Vs. Arizona
Robinson’s milestone makes him just the third player in Falcons history to reach 2,000 scrimmage yards in a single season, joining William Andrews (1981 and 1983) and Jamal Anderson (1998).
“This is so special,” Robinson said postgame, surrounded by roughly 200 family and friends in attendance. “Playing back home and hitting that mark — it’s a blessing.”
Quarterback Kirk Cousins threw for two touchdowns — one to Robinson and another to tight end Kyle Pitts — while adding a 1-yard rushing score of his own.
Cousins finished with 197 passing yards and one interception, efficiently guiding the offense in a game where the Falcons converted a season-high 50% on third downs.
The Falcons (now 6-9) trailed 13-3 early in the second quarter before Robinson took over.
On a crucial three-play drive, he hauled in a 41-yard pass, rushed for 11 yards, and capped it with his touchdown catch to pull Atlanta within 13-10
Later, a 29-yard run by Robinson set up another scoring opportunity, helping Atlanta tie the game at 16-16 heading into halftime despite a blocked extra point.
Cousins’ sneak in the fourth quarter extended the lead, and cornerback C.J. Henderson — elevated from the practice squad just a day earlier — sealed the win with a late interception of Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
For Arizona (3-12), suffering their seventh straight loss, Brissett threw a touchdown to wide receiver Michael Wilson but couldn’t overcome missed field goals and a blown early lead. The Cardinals’ struggles continued despite efforts from tight end Elijah Higgins and a strong ground game.
Robinson now sits at 2,026 scrimmage yards (1,250 rushing, 776 receiving), leading the NFL and putting him in striking distance of Andrews’ franchise record of 2,176 set in 1983.
With two games remaining, the dynamic back has cemented himself as the cornerstone of Atlanta’s offense.
“I’ve been calling him the best player in football all year,” head coach Raheem Morris said. “He’s phenomenal.”
The Falcons return home for a Monday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17, looking to build momentum in a disappointing season salvaged by Robinson’s brilliance.
AtlantaFi.com
Your home for Falcons coverage and Georgia sports news. -
As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, even winning a few games in the final month, fresh rumors are swirling about the organization’s front office and potential coaching changes.
According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, upper-level personnel within the Falcons remain “fond” of legendary coach Bill Belichick, fueling speculation that head coach Raheem Morris’ job could be on shaky ground.
Insider: Falcons Still Have Feelings for Belichick
Anderson reported on December 18 that there has been recent interest from at least two NFL teams in speaking with Belichick on an “exploratory basis.”
She specifically noted that Belichick still has admirers in high places in Atlanta, as well as in New York (Giants) and Cleveland (Browns)—all teams dealing with struggles this season.
This isn’t the first time Belichick’s name has been linked to the Falcons. Back in early 2024, after parting ways with the New England Patriots, Belichick interviewed twice for the Atlanta job and was widely considered the frontrunner.
Owner Arthur Blank appeared eager to bring in the six-time Super Bowl champion, but the team ultimately pivoted to Raheem Morris, the former Rams defensive coordinator with prior ties to the organization.
Now, nearly two years later, the Falcons sit at a disappointing record with another playoff miss locked in—extending the drought to eight straight seasons. Morris, in his second year, has overseen a team plagued by inconsistencies, quarterback transitions, and defensive lapses. While the Falcons showed fight in recent games, including a gritty win over a division rival, the overall results have fallen short of expectations.
The Belichick rumor adds fuel to an already hot seat for Morris. Reports suggest that some in the organization—possibly including Blank himself—still hold the future Hall of Famer in high regard.
Belichick, currently coaching at North Carolina after a challenging first college season, has a low buyout in his contract that could make an NFL return feasible.
Falcons fans are no strangers to coaching carousel drama, and this latest whisper has reignited debates about whether revisiting Belichick would be a stroke of genius or a sign of organizational dysfunction.
Blank has yet to comment publicly on Morris’ status, but with three games left in the season, the evaluations are undoubtedly underway.
For now, Morris and the team are focused on finishing strong against tough remaining opponents.
But as Black Monday approaches, all eyes will be on Flowery Branch to see if the Falcons’ fondness for Belichick turns into something more.Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Chronicle for the latest updates on the Falcons’ offseason outlook.
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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins has spent the last decade evading sacks and throwing touchdowns, so it shouldn’t be a shock when he talks technique on the gridiron, but that’s exactly what he did recently after a Falcons practice session in Flowery Branch.
Cousins, speaking to the media as he awaits the Falcons next game, answered a simple question but in essence he gave a State of the Quarterback address when talking about how signal callers read defenses today.
Falcons’ QB Kirk Cousins On How To Beat a Defense
In his spiel, he spilled the beans on exactly why defenses have been winning the chess match lately. When a reporter asked him about the ongoing debate on “progression reads” (sequentially checking receivers 1 through 5) and “coverage reads” (diagnosing defensive alignments pre-snap to eliminate portions of the field), the 37-year-old veteran eagerly jumped in:
“I’d love to get into it… I can get on this soapbox if you want me to, because I lived the transition,” he said.
Cousins, who entered the league in 2012, described the old-school approach that dominated when he was coming up: Quarterbacks would quickly identify whether the safety alignment was single-high or split-safety pre-snap, then “cut the field in half” and focus on just 2-3 eligible receivers.
Alerts for pressure or specific coverages kept things simple. “But what happened,” Cousins explained, “is defenses have gotten so good at disguising it.”
Coordinators now routinely show one look before the snap—often a safe two-high shell—only to rotate into single-high coverage, man, or blitz after the ball is snapped. This post-snap deception leaves quarterbacks unable to trust their pre-snap diagnosis, forcing hesitation during the critical early stages of the dropback.
Image: Cover 2 defense
The result? Offenses have largely abandoned complex pre-snap processing in favor of “pure progressions”—rigid sequencing where the QB must methodically work through receivers regardless of the coverage.
Cousins recalled his time under current Rams head coach Kevin O’Connell in Minnesota, when reintroducing more pure progressions felt overwhelming at first: “I remember when KOC was bringing a lot of pure progression reads back… it was like whoa, that’s a lot.”
While pure progressions reduce weekly preparation stress—no more game plans hinging on perfect safety reads—they come at a cost. “If you truly try to go 1-2-3-4-5, you’re gonna get sacked,” Cousins warned, noting that elite pass rushes force quicker decisions or checkdowns.
This shift, Cousins implied, is a major reason why gaudy individual passing stats have become rarer in recent years. The era of routine 5,000-yard, 40-touchdown seasons has cooled, as quarterbacks hold the ball longer on average, inviting more pressure and disruption.
League-wide trends in 2025 reflect this: While top passers like Dak Prescott lead in yards, explosive aerial attacks are less consistent, with defenses dictating tempo through disguise and rotation.
Cousins’ breakdown resonates across the league, echoing comments from coordinators like the Vikings’ Wes Phillips, who has noted the explosion of coverage variations—inversions, reduced fronts, and post-snap rotations—that make pre-snap certainty nearly impossible.
For a quarterback like Cousins, who has adapted through multiple systems and is currently thriving in relief of the injured Michael Penix Jr.—including a recent 373-yard, three-touchdown performance—it’s a testament to survival in an ever-evolving chess match.
Final Word
As defenses continue to innovate, the pure progression era may be here to stay, keeping pass rushes smiling and stat sheets a bit more grounded.
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The Atlanta Hawks (approximately 14-13, sitting 7th in the Eastern Conference) are set to welcome the surging San Antonio Spurs to State Farm Arena on Friday, December 19, for a 7:30 PM ET tip-off.
This interconference matchup pits a Hawks team fighting to stay above .500 against a Spurs squad that’s exceeded expectations with one of the West’s top records.
Hawks vs. Spurs: What To Know
After a rollercoaster start to the season, the Hawks have shown resilience, hovering around playoff positioning despite significant injuries. Forward Jalen Johnson has emerged as a breakout star, posting near triple-double averages and earning Player of the Week honors earlier this year.
Whether you’re tailgating at State Farm Arena in spirit or settling in from your couch in Midtown, here’s everything you need to know to catch the action live.
Game Details
- Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
- Tickets: Available via NBA.com or secondary markets like Ticketmaster.
How To Watch the Hawks Game
- TV Broadcast: Catch the game live on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE) for the Hawks’ feed. Raptors fans north of the border can watch on Sportsnet. No national TV tonight – this one’s a local showdown.
- Streaming Options:
- Available on FuboTV (with a free trial for new users), Amazon Prime Video, or services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV that carry FDSSE.
- Stream via NBA League Pass (activate on the NBA app or website for live and on-demand access).
- Out-of-market viewers: NBA League Pass has you covered, but local blackouts apply in the Atlanta area.
- Radio: Tune into the flagship station 92.9 The Game (92.9 FM / 680 AM) on the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network for play-by-play with Steve Holman, Mike Conti, and the crew. Stream it free on the NBA app or Audacy.
- In-Person: Doors open at 6 p.m. at State Farm Arena (1 State Farm Dr.). Tickets start around $25 on Ticketmaster or the Hawks app – snag ’em quick for that electric opener vibe. Public transit tip: MARTA’s Five Points station is your best bet to beat the traffic.
Whether you’re courtside, tailgating in the Gulch, or kicking back on the couch with some wings, we’ve got you covered on every way to watch the action.
Here’s your ultimate guide to tuning in:
Television Broadcast
Catch the game live on your local channels for that classic big-screen vibe:
- Hawks Fans in Atlanta: Tune to FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE) for Bob Rathbun’s play-by-play and pre-game analysis from the State Farm Arena broadcast booth. foxsports1400.iheart.com
- Thunder Fans Out West: FanDuel Sports Network Oklahoma (FDSOK) and KWTV in the OKC market will have the call. foxsports1400.iheart.com
- National Coverage: NBA TV brings the matchup to viewers across the country, perfect for out-of-town ATLiens. foxsports1400.iheart.com
Pro tip: Use a VPN if you’re traveling and hit a blackout—keeps the hoops flowing no matter where you roam.Radio BroadcastOld-school audio magic? Crank up the dial for immersive play-by-play:
Game Analysis: Hawks vs. Spurs
The big question mark heading into this game: Will All-Star guard Trae Young make his long-awaited return? Young has been sidelined since late October with a right MCL sprain but was recalled from his G League rehab assignment this week after participating in full practices.
Sources indicate he’s progressing well and could suit up against the Spurs, potentially giving the Hawks a massive boost with his playmaking and scoring.
On the other side, the Spurs have been one of the season’s surprise stories, boasting a strong record bolstered by the addition of veteran guard De’Aaron Fox and the continued dominance of Victor Wembanyama. The 7’4″ phenom recently returned from a calf strain that sidelined him for about a month, making his comeback in the NBA Cup semifinals where he contributed off the bench.
Fully healthy now, Wembanyama’s rim protection, rebounding, and scoring make him a nightmare matchup – especially for Atlanta’s frontcourt.
Earlier this season, on November 20 in San Antonio, the Spurs topped the Hawks 135-126 in a high-scoring affair, with Fox and Keldon Johnson leading the charge while Wembanyama was out. Atlanta struggled defensively that night but showed flashes of their potential.Keys to the Game for the Hawks:
- Contain Wemby: Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu will need to battle in the paint to limit Wembanyama’s impact. Atlanta’s rim protection has improved, but this will be a true test.
- Tempo Control: The Spurs thrive in transition thanks to Fox’s speed. Forcing half-court sets could play into the Hawks’ hands.
- Young’s Potential Return: If Ice Trae plays, his pick-and-roll mastery could exploit San Antonio’s perimeter defense.
Recent head-to-head battles have been close and entertaining, often going down to the wire with plenty of points. Expect another offensive showcase at State Farm Arena.
Prediction: If Trae Young returns, Hawks pull out a narrow win, 118-114. Without him, the Spurs’ size and depth might prevail.
Hawks fans, get loud – this one’s going to be fun! Tickets are available at Hawks.com. Follow us for live updates and postgame reaction.
Final Word
Health and buy-in from the star will decide if they’re playoff pests or legit threats. First test: Shutting down Toronto’s young guns tonight.Rise up, ATL! Drop your bold predictions in the comments. What’s your score call for tipoff? #GoHawks
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In a game that will be remembered as one of the most thrilling divisional clashes in recent NFC South history, the Atlanta Falcons rallied from a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 29-28 on Thursday Night Football.
The hero of the night? None other than tight end Kyle Pitts, who delivered a historic performance that single-handedly kept the Falcons in the fight and propelled them to victory.
Kyle Putts Explodes With Banner Night
Pitts finished with career highs across the board: 11 receptions on 12 targets for 166 yards and 3 touchdowns.
It was the first three-TD game of his five-year NFL career and marked the first time a tight end has posted 150+ receiving yards and 3+ touchdowns in a single game since Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe did it in 1996.
With star wideout Drake London sidelined for the fourth straight game, Pitts stepped into the spotlight and dominated the Buccaneers’ secondary from the opening drive.
He hauled in touchdown catches of 8, 17, and 7 yards from quarterback Kirk Cousins, including a leaping, acrobatic grab in the fourth quarter that pulled Atlanta within 28-26.
“This is who Kyle Pitts is right here,” running back Bijan Robinson said postgame. Cousins, who threw for 373 yards and all three scores to Pitts, added: “Kyle is our guy.”
The Falcons overcame a franchise-record 19 penalties and trailed 28-14 early in the fourth before mounting the comeback.
Falcons Head Coach Raheem Morris said this after the game:
“It’s a really good football game, well fought by the team. Couldn’t be more proud of how those guys stayed resilient throughout the course of the game, and they found a way to win tonight. That’s what we’ve been talking about all year, you know, seeing us make big-time plays when they were required. It was a lot of fun watching those guys both compete.”
Third and 28
A key third-and-28 conversion to Pitts on the final drive helped set up Zane Gonzalez’s game-winning 43-yard field goal as time expired.
While the win doesn’t salvage Atlanta’s playoff hopes (the Falcons sit at 5-9), it was a statement performance from Pitts, a pending free agent who reminded everyone why he was selected No. 4 overall in 2021. Against a Bucs defense he’s tormented in recent matchups, Pitts looked unstoppable.
For Falcons fans, nights like this are a glimpse of what could have been — and perhaps what still could be. Pitts’ monster outing not only spoiled Tampa Bay’s division lead (dropping the Bucs to 7-7, half a game behind Carolina) but reaffirmed his elite talent on a national stage.
Final Word
Up next, the Falcons head to Arizona for Week 16. If Pitts carries this momentum forward, the final games of 2025 could be must-watch for Dirty Bird Nation. Rise Up!
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University of Georgia football fans, it’s time to circle those dates on your calendars and stock up on red and black gear.
The Bulldogs’ 2026 schedule dropped late Thursday night, promising another grueling yet exhilarating slate of games that could propel the Dawgs back into national championship contention.
Georgia Releases 2026 Football Schedule
The schedule features nine SEC showdowns, seven home tilts at the iconic Sanford Stadium, and a marquee neutral-site battle against Florida in Atlanta.
Head coach Kirby Smart and his staff will have their hands full, with road trips to powerhouses like Alabama and Ole Miss, but Athens faithful can look forward to electric atmospheres under the lights for key home games against Oklahoma, Auburn, and archrival Georgia Tech.
“This is the kind of schedule that tests champions,” Georgia superfan Mick Sims said from Athens. “We’re building a roster to compete in every moment, and in Sanford, we’re unbeatable.”
The season kicks off with a pair of nonconference tune-ups at home, giving the Bulldogs a chance to shake off any early rust before diving into SEC play. Here’s a game-by-game breakdown:
- Sept. 5: vs. Tennessee State (Home) – The opener against the FCS Tigers from the Big South-OVC should provide a confidence booster in front of a raucous Sanford crowd.
- Sept. 12: vs. Western Kentucky (Home) – Another nonconference foe, the Hilltoppers bring Group of Five experience to Athens for what figures to be a comfortable early win.
- Sept. 19: at Arkansas (Away) – The Dawgs hit the road for their SEC debut in Fayetteville, where the Razorbacks always play with fire.
- Sept. 26: vs. Oklahoma (Home) – A blockbuster nonconference clash! The Sooners, fresh in the SEC fold, come to town in a matchup that could echo the intensity of past Red River rivalries.
- Oct. 3: vs. Vanderbilt (Home) – The Commodores visit for a winnable SEC game, but no one overlooks Vandy’s occasional upsets.
- Oct. 10: at Alabama (Away) – Circle this one in blood-red ink. A trip to Tuscaloosa for the Iron Bowl? No, wait – it’s Georgia-Alabama, the SEC’s premier grudge match, where legacies are forged (or shattered).
- Oct. 17: vs. Auburn (Home) – Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry returns to Athens, promising fireworks between two programs with deep historical roots.
- Oct. 24: Off (Bye Week) – A much-needed breather after a brutal stretch, allowing the team to recharge midway through the season.
- Oct. 31: vs. Florida (Neutral, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta) – The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party moves to the Georgia Dome’s successor due to ongoing renovations at Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium. Expect a sea of red and orange in the dome – neutral site or not, this one’s always a war.
- Nov. 7: at Ole Miss (Away) – The Rebels’ Vaught-Hemingway Stadium will be rocking, but Georgia has owned this series lately.
- Nov. 14: vs. Missouri (Home) – The Tigers come calling in a rematch of recent nail-biters; fans are already buzzing about a third straight meeting.
- Nov. 21: at South Carolina (Away) – Shane Beamer’s Gamecocks have turned Williams-Brice into a cauldron – the Dawgs will need to bring their A-game.
- Nov. 28: vs. Georgia Tech (Home) – Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate caps the regular season in Athens. Nothing says Thanksgiving weekend like a rivalry beatdown.
Game times and TV designations will be revealed later, but with seven home dates – including those SEC heavy-hitters – Sanford Stadium is set for another season of sellouts and seismic stomps.
Local boosters are already planning tailgate expansions along Lumpkin Street, and downtown Athens bars like The World Famous are teasing “Schedule Release Parties” this weekend.
Fan reactions poured in fast on social media. “12-0, book it!” one supporter tweeted, while others noted the “brutal” SEC gauntlet and questioned the rotation bringing Alabama and Ole Miss back-to-back years.
Athens resident and lifelong Dawg Phillip Rodes echoed the sentiment: “I thought we were rotating opponents – Ole Miss and Bama for the third straight? Bring it on!”
As the 2025 season winds down with bowl aspirations still alive, this 2026 reveal has reignited the fire in Athens.
The Bulldogs, fresh off another playoff push, enter the offseason with momentum and a roadmap to glory. Go Dawgs – the road to Atlanta (and beyond) starts now.
