Here are a few things to know on Friday:

1. Atlanta United knocked out of playoffs in shootout

After Thursday night's match ended 0-0 in regulation, Atlanta United and Columbus Crew played two periods of extra time before it all came down to a shootout. Columbus prevailed 3-1 on penalty kicks to advance in the MLS playoffs -- and end the inaugural season for Atlanta United.

Read the complete story on ajc.com and read Mark Bradley's take on myajc.com.

2. Hawks lose to Bulls

The Atlanta Hawks lost to the Chicago Bulls 91-86 on Thursday night. After winning their first game of the season, the Hawks are 1-4 headed into their home opener on Friday night against the Denver Nuggets. Friday's matchup starts at 7:30 p.m. at Philips Arena.

3. Five things to know about Georgia State's first home win

Georgia State finally won at Georgia State Stadium on Thursday night against South Alabama 21-13 and Gabe Burns has all the details.

4. Falcons, Sarkisian work to improve on third down

Matt Winklejohn reports the Falcons and new offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian are working to improve on third down after Sunday's loss at New England.

5. Mitchell probably, Stickler out for Yellow Jackets

For Georgia Tech's game at No. 7 Clemson on Saturday, Ken Sugiura reports linebacker Brant Mitchell is probable but offensive tackle Jake Stickler is ruled out.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Fans watch play during a match of the TMRW Golf League (TGL) Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Credit: AP

Featured

Students in Jeremy Lowe's fourth grade class at Parkside Elementary read "warm-up plays" they wrote on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. Atlanta Public Schools saw significant improvement in fourth grade math and reading scores on the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez