CHARLES ODUM Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

FILE - Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. (27) is interviewed after an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, on Jan. 4, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik, File)

Attorney says Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. maintains his innocence while facing 5 felony charges

February 9, 2026

The attorney for Atlanta Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. says Pearce “maintains his innocence” as he faces five felony charges following his arrest near Miami on Saturday night. Pearce’s charges include fleeing police after what Doral police said was a domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Pearce was arrested after crashing his car. His charges include two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking. Pearce posted bond of $20,500 on Sunday. The charges could threaten Pearce’s future with the Falcons. Attorney Jacob Nunez says he is confident Pearce will continue “contributing positively” to the Falcons.

Falcons face new questions about Pearce’s future with the team as pass-rush leader faces charges

February 8, 2026

Following the arrest of James Pearce Jr. on Saturday night, the Atlanta Falcons face troubling questions about the standout rookie’s immediate and long-term future with the team. For at least the 2026 season, Pearce’s status could be jeopardized by serious legal problems. Pearce was arrested near Miami after fleeing officers and then crashing his car following what police said was a domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. According to the jail website, Pearce posted bond of $20,500 Sunday afternoon. He is charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking and fleeing or eluding police.

New Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski, left, speaks as Atlanta Falcons President of Football Matt Ryan looks on during a NFL news conference, Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Falcons rookie Pearce arrested after what police said was a domestic dispute with WNBA player

February 7, 2026

Atlanta Falcons rookie star James Pearce Jr. was arrested near Miami on Saturday night after fleeing officers and then crashing his car following what police said was a domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Pearce, the first-round pick who led the Falcons in sacks and was third in NFL defensive rookie of the year voting, was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center after Doral police were summoned to investigate a reported domestic dispute. According to jail records, Pearce is facing charges of two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon as well as aggravated stalking and fleeing or eluding police with lights or siren. Bond was not immediately set on all the charges. Jackson plays for the Los Angeles Sparks.

Atlanta Hawks guard Luke Kennard (4) shoots against the Indiana Pacers during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Lakers acquire 3-point shooter Kennard from busy Hawks for point guard Vincent, AP source says

February 5, 2026

A person with knowledge of the move has told The Associated Press the Atlanta Hawks acquired point guard Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second-round draft pick from the Los Angeles Lakers for shooting guard Luke Kennard. Vincent adds depth at point guard in the deal, said the person, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the trade had not yet received the required league approval. The 29-year-old Vincent has played in 29 games, including seven starts, while averaging 4.8 points for the Lakers this season. Kennard leads the NBA in 3-point shooting accuracy this season.

FILE - Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham poses for a photo April 28, 2022, in Lake Forest, Ill. (AP Photo, File)

Falcons add final piece to new leadership team by hiring Ian Cunningham as general manager

January 29, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons have added the final piece to their new leadership team by hiring Ian Cunningham as general manager. The decision came after new president of football Matt Ryan led the team’s second interviews with Cunningham and James Liipfert. Cunningham previously interviewed for the president of football position. Ryan was hired for that job and then led the search for new coach Kevin Stefanski. Cunningham and Stefanski will report to Ryan. Cunningham has served as the Chicago Bears’ assistant general manager for the past four years. He spent five seasons in various scouting and player personnel roles with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh speaks during a news conference after an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)

Falcons interview John Harbaugh and Mike McDaniel as they continue search to replace Raheem Morris

January 12, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons have interviewed former Baltimore coach John Harbaugh for their head coaching job. The team also interviewed former Miami coach Mike McDaniel on Monday. Harbaugh is considered by many to be the top candidate for multiple teams following his 18-year tenure leading the Ravens. Falcons owner Arthur Blank said Thursday he hoped Harbaugh would be interested in the Falcons. The Falcons fired coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after an 8-9 finish. Atlanta has since hired Matt Ryan as its president of football

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) kisses the trophy after the Peach Bowl NCAA college football playoff semifinal against Oregon, Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

The Hoosiers’ dominant CFP run could put them in the mix for best of all time… pending a title

January 10, 2026

Undefeated Indiana did more than just justify its place as the top seed in the College Football Playoff with its lopsided 56-22 rout of Oregon in the Peach Bowl semifinal. The Hoosiers also made a statement about their bid to be considered as one of the top teams in college football history. Indiana was led by Fernando Mendoza’s five touchdown passes in Friday night’s overwhelming win. The balance shown by the Hoosiers, with championship-level play on offense, defense and special teams, was just as impressive. Indiana will try to complete its undefeated run in the national championship game against Miami.

FILE - Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, left, talks to former quarterback Matt Ryan before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Oct. 3, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)

Former quarterback Matt Ryan to lead search for Falcons’ new coach and GM as president of football

January 10, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons have named former longtime quarterback Matt Ryan to the newly created role of president of football. Ryan, who holds most of the team’s passing records after he spent 14 years as the starter, was announced as the president of football on Saturday after interviewing for the role a day earlier. Ryan will be responsible for leading the search for the Falcons’ new coach and general manager. Each new hire will report directly to Ryan, who will leave his role as NFL analyst with CBS. Falcons owner Arthur Blank interviewed candidates for only two days before hiring Ryan.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) rolls out during the second half of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal game against Alabama Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

No. 1 Indiana and No. 5 Oregon to compete in CFP semifinal with No. 10 Miami waiting in championship

January 9, 2026

The winner of the College Football Playoff semifinal Peach Bowl between No. 1 Indiana and No. 5 Oregon already knows it will face a true road game in the national championship game. Waiting in the Jan. 19 national title game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, will be No. 10 seed Miami, which advanced with a 31-27 win over Mississippi on Thursday night in the first CFP semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl. The Big Ten will be playing for its third straight title, following Ohio State and Michigan the last two seasons.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) celebrates with tight end Riley Nowakowski (37) after a rushing touchdown by running back Kaelon Black during the second half of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal game Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

No. 1 Indiana and No. 5 Oregon turn CFP Peach Bowl semifinal into celebration of Big Ten’s supremacy

January 7, 2026

The College Football Playoff semifinal at the Peach Bowl is a celebration of the Big Ten’s strength with No. 1-seed Indiana facing No. 5-seed Oregon. The game is a rematch. Indiana won at Oregon 30-20 on October 11 to hand the Ducks their only loss. Indiana is undefeated. Each team is coming off dominant wins. Indiana overwhelmed Alabama 38-3 in the Rose Bowl as Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza threw three touchdown passes. The Ducks shut out Texas Tech 23-0 in the Orange Bowl. Brandon Finney Jr. had two interceptions and a fumble recovery.

Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, right, hugs head coach Raheem Morris after an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Falcons fire coach Raheem Morris, GM Terry Fontenot hours after finishing 8-9 season

January 4, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons have fired coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. The team announced the moves hours after completing its its second straight 8-9 finish under Morris and eighth consecutive losing season. Morris said after Sunday’s win over the New Orleans Saints that he expected to return for a third season. Instead, his 16-18 record was not enough for him to keep his job after the year began with optimism that the Falcons would reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017. Owner Arthur Blank said in a statement that he has “great personal affinity” for Morris and Fontenot but he believes a change is needed.

Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dee Alford (20) celebrates his interception with linebacker Josh Woods (42) in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Alford’s red-zone pick saves Falcons’ 19-17 win over Saints, giving NFC South title to Panthers

January 4, 2026

Dee Alford’s red-zone interception stopped a potential go-ahead drive by New Orleans, and the Atlanta Falcons beat the Saints 19-17 to give the NFC South title to the Carolina Panthers. By closing the season with four consecutive wins, the Falcons finished in a three-way tie with Carolina and Tampa Bay for first place in the NFC South. The Panthers won the tiebreaker between the three 8-9 teams with the best record within the division. The Falcons completed a season sweep of the Saints, who had their four-game winning streak end.

Georgia guard Jeremiah Wilkinson (5) shoots against Auburn forward Filip Jovic, right, during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Wilkinson scores 31 points as high-scoring No. 23 Georgia tops Auburn 104-100 in OT

January 3, 2026

Jeremiah Wilkinson scored 31 points, including two 3-pointers in overtime, and No. 23 Georgia kept up its high-scoring pace as the Bulldogs held off Auburn 104-100 in the Southeastern Conference opener for each team. Auburn’s Keyshawn Hall made two of three free-throw attempts with 0.7 seconds remaining in regulation. Kevin Overton rebounded the missed third attempt and sank a buzzer-beating jumper to send the game to overtime at 92-92. Marcus “Smurf” Millender scored 24 points for Georgia, which began the day leading the nation with 99 points per game. The Bulldogs blocked eight shots, including five by Somto Cyril.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) passes against the Tennessee Titans in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Amis)

NFC South rivals Falcons and Saints are looking to place encouraging final touch on losing seasons

January 2, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints have similar goals of trying to complete losing seasons on high notes that offer hope the momentum can carry into 2026. The bad news for the NFC rivals is even extending a winning streak into the final regular-season game would come far too late to make this a successful season. The Falcons are 7-9 and have a season-best three-game winning streak. Atlanta will try to complete their first season sweep of the Saints since 2016. The Saints are 6-10 and have won four straight with rookie quarterback Tyler Shough.

Atlanta Falcons place kicker Zane Gonzalez (45) celebrates his field goal in the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Robinson runs for 195 yards as Falcons recover to upset Rams 27-24 on 51-yard field goal by Gonzalez

December 29, 2025

Zane Gonzalez kicked a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds remaining and the Atlanta Falcons recovered after blowing two 21-point leads to upset the Los Angeles Rams 27-24. Bijan Robinson’s 93-yard touchdown run was the longest in Atlanta history. Jessie Bates III scored on a 34-yard interception return. The Falcons led 21-0 at halftime. Matthew Stafford recovered from throwing three interceptions to help the Rams pull even a 24-24. Stafford’s 11-yard touchdown pass to Puka Nacua tied the game. Robinson rushed for 195 yards and set the Falcons record for most scrimmage yards in a season.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford speaks during a news conference after an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)

Rams Pro Bowler Stafford heads into Monday night game against the Falcons as the top passer in NFL

December 28, 2025

Pro Bowl quarterback Matthew Stafford is leading the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns as the playoff-bound Los Angeles Rams prepare to play the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night. Falcons coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson have much praise for Stafford, the former University of Georgia star. Robinson says Falcons second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. drew comparisons to Stafford when the Falcons made Penix a first-round pick in 2024. Penix is recovering from a season-ending knee injury, leaving veteran Kirk Cousins to start against the Rams. The starting role is reserved for Penix in 2026.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris speaks with line judge Greg Bradley during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Falcons’ Morris still seeking ways to ‘mimic’ the Rams’ winning formula entering Monday night game

December 26, 2025

Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris says he has tried to “mimic and mock” the Los Angeles Rams’ winning formula. As the Falcons prepare to play the Rams on Monday night, the records show Atlanta has struggled to duplicate the winning formula. While the Rams are 11-4 and trying to improve their playoff position, the Falcons are 6-9 in their second season under Morris. With the Falcons locked into their eighth straight losing season, there has been speculation about Morris’s future with the team. Morris spent three seasons in Los Angeles as the defensive coordinator under Sean McVay.

Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) shoots over Atlanta Hawks forward Onyeka Okongwu, left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Bulls beat the Hawks 152-150 in the highest-scoring game in the NBA this season

December 21, 2025

Matas Buzelis scored 28 points to lead nine Chicago players in double figures and the Bulls outlasted the Atlanta Hawks 152-150 on Sunday in the highest-scoring game in the NBA this season. Chicago set season highs for points in a first half and game and held on in the closing seconds in the first of two straight games in Atlanta. The teams will meet again Tuesday night. Jalen Johnson led Atlanta with 36 points, and Trae Young had a season-high 35. The Hawks have lost three straight and seven of nine to fall back to .500 at 15-15. Buzelis made a career-high seven 3-pointers in eight attempts for the hot-shooting Bulls. They have won three straight to improve to 13-15.

FILE - Atlanta Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim fields a ball hit by Pittsburgh Pirates' Oneil Cruz in the first half of a baseball game Sept. 27, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)

Infielder Ha-Seong Kim returns to Braves on $20 million, 1-year contract

December 15, 2025

Shortstop Ha-Seong Kim is returning to the Atlanta Braves. He agreed Monday to a $20 million, one-year contract. Kim gets a $4 million raise. The 30-year-old from South Korea had declined a $16 million player option from the $29 million, two-year contract he agreed to in February with Tampa Bay. The Braves announced the new deal with Kim Monday night. The return of Kim means Mauricio Dubón likely will be available in a utility role instead of being asked to play shortstop every day. The Braves acquired Dubón from Houston last month.

Georgia running back Roderick Robinson II (0) celebrates his touchdown against Alabama during the first half of a Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

No. 3 Georgia ends No. 10 Alabama’s hold on rivalry, beats Crimson Tide 28-7 to win SEC championship

December 6, 2025

No. 3 Georgia has solidified its position for a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff and beaten Alabama in the Southeastern Conference championship game for the first time. The Bulldogs pounded the 10th-ranked Crimson Tide 28-7 on Saturday behind three touchdown passes from Gunner Stockton. Georgia had been 0-4 against Alabama in the SEC title game and 1-7 against the Crimson Tide under coach Kirby Smart. The Bulldogs earned their fourth SEC title under Smart and 16th overall. The lopsided loss means Alabama will have to worry about its standing with the College Football Playoff committee.

Georgia running back Nate Frazier (3) runs against Georgia Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

No. 4 Georgia holds off No. 23 Georgia Tech 16-9 for 8th straight win in series

November 28, 2025

Nate Frazier ran for 108 yards, Gunner Stockton’s scoring pass to Zachariah Branch was the only touchdown of the game and No. 4 Georgia retained its hold on its state rivalry with another close win by holding off No. 23 Georgia Tech 16-9. The Bulldogs set a record with their eighth straight win in the rivalry. Georgia Tech, which moved its home game from its campus stadium to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, closed the regular season by losing three of four games. Peyton Woodring of Georgia and Aidan Birr of Georgia Tech each kicked three field goals.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) walks of the field after overtime of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Falcons quarterback Penix will have season-ending knee surgery, leaving Cousins as starter

November 19, 2025

Atlanta Falcons quarter Michael Penix Jr. will have season-ending surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The Falcons announced Penix’s surgery plans on Wednesday, two days after saying he would be placed on injured reserve and miss at least four games. The team said Penix has a partially torn ligament in the knee. Veteran Kirk Cousins will start for the remainder of the season as the Falcons prepare to play at New Orleans on Sunday. Penix suffered the injury in Sunday’s 30-27 overtime loss to Carolina, extending the Falcons’ losing streak to five games.

Falcons QB Penix headed to injured reserve, will miss at least 4 games with left knee injury

November 17, 2025

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix will be placed on injured reserve and will miss at least four games with a left knee injury, leaving Kirk Cousins as the starter. Penix suffered the injury in Sunday’s 30-27 overtime loss to Carolina. It was the Falcons’ fifth straight loss. Cousins will make his second start of the season when the Falcons play at New Orleans on Sunday. Penix missed the Falcons’ 34-10 loss to Miami on Oct. 26 with a bone bruise on his left knee. He apparently aggravated the bone bruise and may have suffered a more significant injury.

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart poses for a photo with fans before the start of an NCAA college football game against Texas, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

No. 5 Georgia and No. 10 Texas battle to protect their postseason hopes in SEC showdown

November 15, 2025

A rematch of last season’s Southeastern Conference championship game finds No. 5 Georgia and No. 10 Texas battling to protect their postseason hopes on Saturday night. Texas took a four-game winning streak into the game. Georgia has won five straight games since its only loss, a 22-19 overtime decision at home against Alabama on Sept. 27, That loss ended Georgia’s 33-game home winning streak, which was the longest active streak in FBS. Gunner Stockton came off the bench to lead the Bulldogs to a 22-19 overtime win over Texas in last year’s SEC championship game in Atlanta.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins warms up before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. and top WR Drake London to miss game against Dolphins due to injuries

October 26, 2025

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is inactive against the Miami Dolphins after being listed as questionable with a bone bruise on his left knee. Kirk Cousins, who lost the starting job to Penix for the final three games of last season, will make his first start in more than 10 months. Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is available after being adding to the injury list with an illness early Sunday. Tagovailoa had no game-status designation. The Falcons’ top wide receiver, Drake London, is inactive after he was added to the injury report on Saturday with a hip injury.

Georgia running back Nate Frazier (3) reacts with quarterback Gunner Stockton (14) and offensive lineman Drew Bobo (74) after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Stockton throws 4 TD passes as No. 9 Georgia rallies in 4th quarter to beat No. 5 Ole Miss 43-35

October 18, 2025

Gunner Stockton passed for 289 yards and four touchdowns, including three to tight end Lawson Luckie, and No. 9 Georgia overcame Trinidad Chambliss and No. 5 Mississippi’s powerful offense to rally for a 43-35 win over the Rebels. Georgia rallied after trailing 35-26 at the start of the fourth quarter. Stockton’s 7-yard touchdown pass to Luckie with 7:29 remaining gave Georgia a 40-35 lead. Ole Miss was denied its first road win over a top 10 team under coach Lane Kiffin even though the Rebels scored touchdowns on their first five possessions. Stockton added a 22-yard scoring run.

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) celebrates his rushing touchdown with tight end Kyle Pitts (8) and cornerback Natrone Brooks (35) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Falcons ride Robinson’s 170 rushing yards, including 81-yard TD, to 24-14 win over Allen and Bills

October 13, 2025

Bijan Robinson matched a career high with 170 rushing yards and the Atlanta Falcons denied Josh Allen’s comeback attempt to beat the Buffalo Bills 24-14. Robinson’s huge day included an 81-yard touchdown run that was the longest rush in the NFL this season. He also had six catches for 68 yards to finish with a career-best 238 yards from scrimmage. Allen threw two touchdown passes but was also intercepted twice as the Bills lost their second straight. Drake London, who had 10 catches for 158 yards and a touchdown for the Falcons.

FILE - Chicago Cubs manager David Ross walks back to the dugout during the 10th inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Sept. 16, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)

Former Braves catcher David Ross says a return to Atlanta as team’s next manager ‘would be amazing’

October 2, 2025

Former Atlanta catcher and Chicago Cubs manager David Ross says he’s ready to manage again and said returning to the dugout with the Braves “would be amazing.” Even so, Ross declined to elaborate about his interest in the Braves in an interview with The Associated Press without knowing if he’ll be on the list of candidates to replace Brian Snitker. Ross, a native of Bainbridge, Georgia, was 262-284 in four seasons managing the Cubs from 2020-23. Snitker announced Wednesday he will not return after 10 seasons as the Braves’ manager. Ross played for the Braves from 2009-12.

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts (8) celebrates his touchdown against the Washington Commanders during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Penix leads much-needed offensive resurgence for Falcons as 4 1st-rounders flourish

October 2, 2025

Tight end Kyle Pitts and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. enjoyed confidence-building performances in the Atlanta Falcons’ win over Washington last weekend. Penix threw scoring passes to Pitts and Drake London. The Falcons have a bye week to relish the offensive revival before they host the Buffalo Bills in a Monday night game. Penix and running back Bijan Robinson enjoyed career-best games as the Falcons set a season high with 435 yards against the Commanders. The Falcons are 2-2 and will need more production from their offense as they look for their first playoff season since 2017.

Alabama wide receiver Isaiah Horton (1) reacts after scoring a touchdown in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Georgia, Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Simpson accounts for 3 TDs as No. 17 Alabama never trails and beats No. 5 Georgia 24-21

September 27, 2025

Ty Simpson passed for 276 yards and two touchdowns and ran for a score as No. 17 Alabama held on late to beat No. 5 Georgia 24-21 to give the Bulldogs their first home loss in six years. Alabama won its third straight since opening the season with a 31-17 loss at Florida State. Georgia fell behind 17-7 in the first half and never led. The Bulldogs fell to 1-7 against Alabama under coach Kirby Smart, the Crimson Tide’s former defensive coordinator. Alabama ended Georgia’s home winning streak at 33.

New York Mets pitcher Nolan McLean (26) delivers in the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Poised rookie Nolan McLean takes up mantle for struggling Mets rotation in win over Braves

August 22, 2025

The scuffling New York Mets have been in desperate need of a starter other than David Peterson to pitch deep into games. Making his second major league start, Nolan McLean showed his Mets teammates he’s no ordinary rookie. McLean allowed four hits and two runs in seven innings during New York’s 12-7 win over the Atlanta Braves. And manager Carlos Mendoza was even more impressed that McLean was so composed while pitching in the home park of the Braves, the team he cheered for while growing up in Willow Spring, North Carolina, on a night when Atlanta brought out a bevy of former stars to celebrate the 30-year anniversary of its 1995 World Series championship.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. works out during a joint NFL football practice between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tennessee Titans, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. lands at bottom of pile during joint-practice scuffle with Titans

August 13, 2025

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. found himself in a scuffle during a joint practice with the Tennessee Titans. After throwing a long touchdown pass on Wednesday, Penix said he was celebrating in response to comments from Titans players. He ended up at the bottom of a pile, marking his first on-field altercation. This came after Falcons coach Raheem Morris praised the team for a fight-free practice on Tuesday. Titans players aimed to match the Falcons’ intensity after a lackluster first practice. Falcons quarterback coach D.J. Williams noted how Penix’s teammates defended the quarterback, proving he has the team’s support.

Home plate umpire Jen Pawol calls a strike during the first inning of a baseball game between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves, Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Pawol breaks gender barrier, earns good reviews for her work behind the plate on historic weekend

August 11, 2025

Jen Pawol breezed through Sunday’s Marlins-Braves game as if breaking a gender barrier was just another day on the job. Considering Pawol became the first female umpire to work behind the plate in the majors, finding a way to make history appear to be routine was especially impressive. It was an impressive cap to a memorable weekend for Pawol. She made history in Saturday’s doubleheader as the first female umpire to work a regular-season game in the majors. She moved behind the plate for the Braves’ 7-1 win on Sunday, placing her in the brightest spotlight for an umpire.

Milwaukee Brewers' Caleb Durbin (21) embraces Andrew Vaughn (28) after a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Brewers use best 60-game stretch in team history to state case as best team in the major leagues

August 5, 2025

The Milwaukee Brewers are making it more difficult to be overlooked on the national stage. They continue to expand their lead in the NL Central and also boast the best record in the majors following the best 60-game stretch in team history. Even so, manager Pat Murphy says “most people couldn’t tell you five players on our team.” The Brewers’ 7-2 win over Atlanta on Tuesday night, combined with the Chicago Cubs’ 5-1 loss to Cincinnati, left Milwaukee with a four-game lead in the NL Central division. Murphy said it will be important for players to keep their focus.

San Francisco Giants designated hitter Rafael Devers (16) celebrates his three-run home run against the Atlanta Braves in the sixth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Verlander ends historic 16-game winless streak as Devers’ 2 homers power Giants past Braves 9-3

July 23, 2025

Justin Verlander has ended the longest winless streak for a Giants pitcher in a single season. He led San Francisco to a 9-3 victory Wednesday over the Atlanta Braves. Verlander, who signed a one-year deal in January, allowed just one hit in five scoreless innings. Rafael Devers drove in four runs with three hits, including two home runs. He hit a homer in the fifth inning and added a three-run shot in the sixth. The Giants outscored the Braves 18-3 in the final two games of the series. Matt Chapman added a two-run homer for San Francisco.

San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander (35) delivers in the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Verlander finds bottle of his favorite wine waiting at his locker after elusive 1st win with Giants

July 23, 2025

Justin Verlander overcame the Atlanta Braves — and the rain — to end the longest winless streak in a season in Giants history. The 42-year-old Verlander had been winless in his first 16 starts with San Francisco before allowing only one hit in five scoreless innings to beat the Atlanta Braves 9-3 on Wednesday. His teammates helped the three-time Cy Young Award winner celebrate by leaving a bottle of wine at his locker. The win was more than a personal drought-breaker for Verlander. It gave the Giants the series win after Tuesday night’s 9-0 victory ended a six-game losing streak.

FILE - Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer watches during Alabama's A-Day NCAA college football practice and autograph session, Saturday, April 12, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt, File)

Kalen DeBoer is looking to escape Nick Saban’s shadow and lead Tide back to playoffs in 2nd season

July 16, 2025

Kalen DeBoer is looking to restore Alabama as one of the nation’s top college football teams. At the same time, he’s looking to escape the shadow of Nick Saban. DeBoer is entering his second season as Alabama coach after a 9-4 finish in his 2024 debut. DeBoer said at SEC media days that his team “fell short” last season because it failed to qualify for the playoffs. He says the Crimson Tide have learned from their shortcomings and are in position to enjoy greater success in 2025. DeBoer says Alabama must “be better in the big moments” this season.

MLB honors Hank Aaron with recreation of record 715th homer during All-Star Game

July 15, 2025

Major League Baseball honored late Hall of Famer Hank Aaron by recreating his record-breaking 715th career home run through the use of projection mapping and custom pyrotechnics. The lights went down at Truist Park and fans stood holding their cell phone lights following the sixth inning of Tuesday night’s All-Star Game. The scene from April 8, 1974 at old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium was projected on the infield and also shown on the video board. Aaron’s widow, Billye Aaron, was cheered as she stood and waved following the tribute.

Milwaukee Brewers' Jacob Misiorowski reacts after striking out Los Angeles Dodgers' Freddie Freeman during the third inning of a baseball game Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Aaron Gash)

Dave Roberts defends Jacob Misiorowski’s All-Star selection as an ‘easy answer’

July 14, 2025

National League All-Star manager Dave Roberts said including Milwaukee rookie right-hander Jacob Misiorowski on his team was “an easy answer” despite complaints from some players over his inclusion after just five big league appearances. Misiorowski has pitched in only five games, a record low for an All-Star, creating a debate between those who say the game is for the most deserving players and those who say the game is for the fans. The 23-year-old created an instant stir when he threw a 100.5 mph fastball for his first pitch in the big leagues.

Nationals take Eli Willits with No. 1 pick in MLB draft, first of record 17 first-round shortstops

July 13, 2025

The Washington Nationals selected Oklahoma high school shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 pick in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft in a selection seen by some as a surprise. The 17-year-old Willits is the youngest player taken No. 1 overall since Ken Griffey Jr. to Seattle in 1987, according to MLB. He’s the son of ex-big leaguer Reggie Willits, who played six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels and also coached with the New York Yankees. Willits, from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School, is a switch-hitter who is expected to develop a power swing. The draft came one week after the Nationals fired longtime general manager Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez.

Home-state favorite Chase Elliott passes Brad Keselowski on final lap to win NASCAR Atlanta race

June 28, 2025

Home-state favorite Chase Elliott passed Brad Keselowski on the final lap and won the the crash-filled NASCAR Cup Series at Atlanta on Saturday night for his 20th career victory. Elliott, the popular driver from Dawsonville, Georgia, earned a spot in the NASCAR playoffs with his first victory since April 2024 at Texas. It was his first win in Atlanta since 2022. The race’s second crash early in Stage 2 took out many of the sport’s biggest names and left others with damaged cars. Pole-winner Joey Logano, who led the first 36 laps before light rain forced the first caution, was among the many drivers caught up in the big crash. Keselowski was second, followed by Elliott’s Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet teammate, Alex Bowman.

Joey Logano walks to his car before a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Hermanos Rodríguez race track in Mexico City, Sunday, June 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

NASCAR’s Cup Series to debut In-Season Challenge as $1 million backdrop to points race for title

June 27, 2025

The debut of NASCAR’s In-Season Challenge in Saturday night’s Cup Series race in Atlanta has generated differing opinions and expectations from drivers. After all, there’s a points race to attend to. Every team’s top priority is qualifying for the playoffs and trying to win the championship. Denny Hamlin is the No. 1 seed in the 32-driver In-Season Challenge, a five-race, bracket-style tournament. Chase Briscoe, who held off Hamlin to win last week at Pocono Raceway, is the No. 2 seed. A $1 million prize awaits the winner as part of a new media rights deal that includes TNT.

Acuña hits homer and Strider fans 13 as Braves’ 4-1 win leaves Rockies with worst 70-game record

June 14, 2025

Spencer Strider recorded 13 strikeouts in his first win of the season, Ronald Acuña Jr. stayed hot with two hits, including a two-run homer, and the Atlanta Braves beat Colorado 4-1. The loss left the Rockies with the worst record through 70 games in the modern era. Colorado fell to 13-57 and surpassed the 1932 Boston Red Sox, who were 14-56, for the worst 70-game mark since 1901. The resurgent Braves have outscored the Rockies 16-5 in the first two games of the season after setting a scoring high in Friday night’s 12-4 win.

Woeful Rockies absorb 2 records for futility with 19 whiffs and worst 70-game mark in modern era

June 14, 2025

The Colorado Rockies have made history no team wants to claim. With their 4-1 loss to the Atlanta Braves, the Rockies have the worst 70-game record in the modern era. They fell to 13-57. The 1932 Boston Red Sox had the previous worst 70-game mark at 14-56. The Rockies made more inglorious history by setting a team record with 19 strikeouts. Veteran first baseman Kyle Farmer says the Rockies “don’t care” about making history for the worst start in baseball’s modern era. Farmer says the players simply have to move on for the next game.

Ronald Acuña Jr. hits long homer on first pitch in his return to Braves after missing 1 year

May 23, 2025

Ronald Acuña Jr. crushed his first pitch 467 feet for a home run in his dramatic return to the Atlanta Braves. Making his first appearance in almost one year, the 2023 NL MV ,was activated from the injured list and restored to the Braves’ lineup almost one year after he tore his left ACL. Acuña, in his customary leadoff position in the lineup, turned on a fastball from San Diego right-hander Nick Pivetta’ and sent the ball into the seats in left-center. Acuña hesitated briefly on his jog around the bases for a shuffle step.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark reacts after making a three-pointer in the first half of an WNBA basketball game against the Atlanta Dream, Thursday, May, 22, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Caitlin Clark says she took video of her reaction to the Pacers’ comeback win over the Knicks

May 22, 2025

Caitlin Clark says it’s a great time to be a basketball fan in Indiana. It’s enough to turn Clark, one of the state’s biggest stars, into a fan during the NBA playoffs. Clark said before the Indiana Fever’s WNBA game at the Atlanta Dream on Thursday night that she was so caught up in the Pacers’ come-from-behind 138-135 overtime win at the New York Knicks on Wednesday night that she took video of her reaction to the game’s signature play. Tyrese Haliburton hit a jumper that sent Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals into overtime.

CHARLES ODUM Sports Writer.