Georgia-Alabama: What you should know the weekend before the big game

It’s three days and counting until the kickoff of the College Football Playoff championship Monday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Here’s what you should know heading into the weekend before the big game, and check back throughout the day for news updates:

> Today is 'UGA Football Friday': Gov. Nathan Deal proclaimed a "UGA Football Friday" and encouraged state employees – and Georgia fans across the state – to wear red and black ahead of the college football title game.

> Teams set to arrive Friday: Georgia and Alabama are expected to arrive in Atlanta at some point today, likely in the late afternoon or early evening. Both will participate in Media Day activities Saturday morning. Here's the UGA roster for Monday's game.

> 'Pronounced' police downtown: Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields said "off days are canceled" through Tuesday for every one of the city's nearly 1,800 law enforcement officers, who are working 12-hour shifts.

> Ticket prices dropping dramatically: Tickets to Monday's matchup between Georgia and Alabama aren't exactly a steal yet but the prices posted on ticket broker sites have dropped quite a bit from their stratospheric starting point.

> Looking for a hotel room? Better hurry: Many hotel managers downtown said their properties are filling up fast — or are already sold out.

> Free concerts this weekend: Jason Derulo, The Chainsmokers and Darius Rucker headline the trio of shows during AT&T Playoff Playlist Live! Saturday through Monday at Centennial Olympic Park.

>  Road to the national championship: The latest news on the Bulldogs and Crimson Tide | Follow UGA to Atlanta

> Weekend events at a glance: Everything you need to know about what's going in town beginning today. | Fans guide