Abe Gordon
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“The ABE-T-L Show” on @929TheGame. Pregame and Postgame for @ATLUTD. Sports radio host and producer. Originally from Atlanta...I love sports, all of them...
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Articles by Abe Gordon
Lamar Jackson ruled OUT; Huntley to start vs. Falcons
After a week of speculation, the ankle injury sustained by Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has proven too much and he has been ruled out for Sunday Night Football agains the Atlanta Falcons. The Ravens will be starting QB Tyler Huntley, who is regarded as one of the better backup QB's in the NFL, as the Falcons look to win their 2rd consecutive primetime game.
Should Braves consider making Ronald Acuna a full-time DH?
Ronald Acuña Jr. has the talent to be the Braves’ most impactful offensive player, but since his MVP season in 2023, staying healthy has become a recurring concern, while his consistency at the plate has also fluctuated. With Acuña under a team-friendly contract for the next several seasons, the Braves have a decision to make: Should they prioritize keeping his bat in the lineup by reducing the physical demands of playing the field?
Cooper Rush to start against Carolina Panthers; Penix still out
Despite seemingly trying to get close enough to 100% to start, Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Penix has been ruled out of Sunday's Week 2 game against the Carolina Panthers, putting Cooper Rush in line to start for the second straight week. Rush, who's dealing with a back issue of his own, is hoping to be better at home than he was on the road against the Steelers, a game in which he just found out he would be starting on Thursday of last week.
Waiting game continues as Falcons fail to name Week 2 starting QB
Atlanta Falcons Head coach Kevin Stefanski met with the media ahead of Wednesday's practice and, given an opportunity to name a starting QB for Week 2's home opener against he Carolina Panthers, didn't name a starter. Stefanski said the staff will "work through that this week" and that they aren't "ruling anyone out".
Tua ruled OUT; Cooper Rush to start vs. Steelers
QB Tua Tagovailoa has officially been ruled OUT for the Atlanta Falcons season opening game against the Pittsburgh Steelers seemingly putting Cooper Rush in line to start the season. Rush, who just joined Atlanta days before Training Camp, was slated to be an inactive emergency 3rd QB in the opener before Michael Penix declared himself not ready and Tua Tagovailoa suffered an oblique injury in practice on Thursday.
Tua, not Penix: Are Falcons fans mad or just disappointed?
Most had hoped that once Michael Penix Jr. was cleared for full 11-on-11 activities, he would be ready to take over the quarterback job and start in Week 1—especially after Tua Tagovailoa failed to impress during the preseason games and joint practices. Unfortunately, the Atlanta Falcons announced yesterday that not only would Tua get the start Sunday, but Penix also isn’t ready to return and will be inactive for the season opener against the Steelers.
Michael Penix will NOT play in Friday's preseason game
After delaying his decision earlier in the week, Falcons Head Coach Kevin Stefanski announced that Michael Penix Jr. will not play in Friday’s preseason matchup against the Dolphins. Atlanta has announced its quarterback rotation, with Tua Tagovailoa expected to start before giving way to Cooper Rush and eventually Jack Strand.
Kevin Stefanski hints at when Falcons will address James Pearce’s future
It wasn't the answer many were looking for, but it may have provided a timeline for when the Atlanta Falcons will finally address the future of defensive end James Pearce Jr. When asked whether the embattled second-year player would attend next week's minicamp, head coach Kevin Stefanski replied, "I'll deal with next week next week." While the comment postpones a definitive answer from today's media session, it also suggests the organization expects to address Pearce's status when minicamp...
James Pearce will now require 12 months to have charges dismissed
While it was initially announced that James Pearce Jr. would enter a six-month diversion program related to multiple charges that could ultimately be dropped and dismissed, reporter Andy Slater reported Tuesday that the agreement has since been amended to a 12-month program. The change extends the timeline of the legal process but does not necessarily alter the potential outcome if Pearce successfully completes the program’s requirements.
'Braves Country' exists because of Ted Turner
Ted Turner was a towering figure in Atlanta sports and media—a visionary businessman best known for founding CNN, who also left an indelible mark on baseball through his ownership of the Atlanta Braves. Turner’s bold decision to broadcast Braves games on his national superstation, TBS, transformed the franchise into “America’s Team,” cultivating generations of fans across the Southeast and far beyond.
Braves prioritize JR Ritchie’s growth over one loss
After building a 4–0 lead in the sixth inning in Seattle, the Braves let JR Ritchie return to the mound—a decision that unraveled quickly. Ritchie surrendered a three-run homer, and after he was lifted, Tyler Kinley gave up the go-ahead runs in what became a 5–4 loss to the Mariners. On The Midday Show on 92.9 The Game, Andy Bunker and Randy McMichael broke down the choice to give the young starter another inning.
Harold Perkins could be hidden gem of Falcons Draft Class
The Falcons added six players in the 2026 NFL Draft, and while Day 2 names like Avieon Terrell and Zachariah Branch have dominated early headlines, one late-round pick could prove just as impactful. Sixth-round selection Harold Perkins Jr., a linebacker out of LSU, brings intriguing upside despite slipping down draft boards.
James Pearce Jr. enters pretrial program, eyes Falcons return
Falcons pass rusher James Pearce Jr. is expected to have all charges from a February 7 incident in Florida dismissed upon completion of a pretrial intervention program, according to reports. The resolution would clear multiple felony counts and a misdemeanor from his record and could pave the way for a return to the Atlanta Falcons, pending any discipline from the league office.
'Complete buy-in': The story behind the Hawks 2nd half surge
Since February 22, the Atlanta Hawks have gone 16–2, surging into the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference with a chance to climb to No. 5 with six games left in the regular season. At the NBA Trade Deadline, Atlanta dealt Trae Young—a move many thought might derail the season. Instead, the Hawks have thrived. With roles reshaped across the roster, including an expanded role for guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the team has found a new rhythm.
Falcons using short-term contracts to identify core players
The Atlanta Falcons have signed several players to short-term contracts—mostly one- and two-year deals. According to 92.9 The Game Falcons reporter Joe Patrick, the strategy allows the team to emphasize its core players while avoiding long-term commitments to underperforming ones. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images
NBA is new no-fun league after cancelling Hawks viral promotion
The NBA League Office has forced the Hawks to cancel their viral and widely popular “Magic City Monday” promotion, saying the move was the “right decision for the broader NBA community.” The decision has sparked frustration among many fans, who see it as overreach and evidence of a lack of cultural understanding about Atlanta. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images
Falcons interested in Tua - What would it mean for Penix?
Shortly before the legal tampering period began at Noon ET, multiple reports indicated the Falcons were interested in former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Atlanta could view the former Pro Bowler as an experienced short-term option while Michael Penix Jr. continues recovering from injury. If the Falcons were able to add Tagovailoa on a minimum deal, it would be a low-risk move—but it would also raise a significant question: once Penix returns, would the starting job still be his?
Jurickson Profar facing 162-game suspension for second failed drug test
Atlanta Braves outfielder/designated hitter Jurickson Profar has been suspended for 162 games following a second violation of Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Profar previously served an 80-game suspension last season shortly after signing with Atlanta as a free agent. The Braves inked Profar to a three-year, $42 million deal following a career year with the San Diego Padres, but the signing has quickly unraveled.
Spencer Strider takes the mound — But are the concerns gone?
After several days of speculation — and a mysteriously silent radar gun during a previous workout — Spencer Strider finally made his Spring Training debut for the Atlanta Braves. The right-hander tossed two innings, allowed one run, and struck out two in his first action against live hitters. Encouraging? Maybe. But was it enough to convince Braves fans that their ace will look like himself when the regular season begins?
Ian Cunningham , Jeff Ulbrich seemingly at odds over key Falcons defender
When Jeff Ulbrich addressed the media during the Atlanta Falcons’ coordinator introductions, he made his feelings about Kaden Elliss unmistakable — the veteran linebacker, he suggested, couldn’t be replaced by just one player. But weeks later at the NFL Scouting Combine, general manager Ian Cunningham struck a far different tone, casting doubt on whether Elliss will return at all. General manager Ian Cunningham was notably more measured when asked about Kaden Elliss at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Hawks get glimpse of future while honoring the past
Tuesday night was supposed to be about the past. It was Trae Young’s first game back at State Farm Arena since the Atlanta Hawks traded him to the Washington Wizards, and the home crowd made sure the moment mattered, greeting their former star with a standing ovation and a lengthy video tribute. But by the final buzzer, the focus had shifted from nostalgia to possibility.
BREAKING: Falcons reportedly planning to use franchise tag on TE Kyle Pitts
The Atlanta Falcons have reportedly addressed one of their biggest offseason questions. According to Ian Rapoport, the team has decided to place the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts. The move would give Pitts a fully guaranteed one-year contract worth more than $15 million. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll be playing on a short-term deal next season. The Falcons and Pitts still have until July to negotiate and potentially agree on a long-term extension.
Zaccharie Risacher’s move out of Hawks starting lineup was inevitable
In the Atlanta Hawks’ Sunday afternoon win over the Brooklyn Nets, there was a noticeable shift in the starting five: a healthy Zaccharie Risacher moved to the bench in favor of CJ McCollum. The decision wasn’t solely an indictment of Risacher’s development this season — Atlanta clearly needed another reliable ball-handler with the first unit — but it was still significant.
Kirby Smart has company as CFB’s highest paid coach
For the third time in two seasons, Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti has signed a contract extension. His latest deal ties him with Georgia’s Kirby Smart as the highest-paid coach in college football, with both set to earn $13.2 million annually. Cignetti’s most recent raise was triggered by a clause in his contract stipulating that he must rank among the top three highest-paid coaches if he reaches the College Football Playoff semifinals.
What to watch in Hawks final 26 regular-season games
The Atlanta Hawks open up the post-all Star Game portion of their season tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers, and with 26 games remaining, the Hawks are involved in a playoff push to remain in play-in position, but there are some other reasons to keep a close team on the team as well. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Winning the margins: Georgia Bulldogs and the analyst edge
The Georgia Bulldogs recently added a familiar name to their staff — legendary UGA running back Robert Edwards — but as Brandon Adams of DawgNation Daily explains, the move goes far beyond nostalgia. It’s another calculated step by Kirby Smart to squeeze every possible advantage from the program’s evolving staffing model. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Spencer Schwellenbach placed on 60-Day IL as Braves Pitchers & Catchers report
Braves pitchers and catchers reported to Spring Training on Tuesday morning, but the start of camp brought unfortunate news for Spencer Schwellenbach. The right-hander, who is working his way back from the elbow injury that cut his 2025 season short, is already dealing with right-elbow inflammation and will begin the year on the 60-day injured list.
What’s going on with Zaccharie Risacher?
Zaccharie Risacher, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, experienced the expected ups and downs during his rookie season. After a slow start, he showed real development late in the year when given more opportunity. However, his sophomore campaign has gone in the opposite direction, looking less like a step forward and more like a step back—culminating in one of the worst performances of his career last night, when he went 0-for-8 from the field, including four missed threes.
Who loses playing time after Hawks add Kuminga, Hield, & Vincent?
The Atlanta Hawks have been very active ahead of Thursday’s 3 p.m. NBA Trade Deadline, acquiring Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield from the Warriors, Gabe Vincent from the Lakers, and Jock Landale from the Jazz in a flurry of moves. While each addition brings a specific skill set that could help Atlanta, fitting all four into the rotation won’t come without consequences. With minutes and roles suddenly harder to come by, which returning Hawks stand to lose the most?
Ian Cunningham: Experiences with Hall Of Fame GM’s have prepared me
Despite lacking prior experience as a general manager, the Atlanta Falcons hired Ian Cunningham after a lengthy and successful run in NFL front offices across multiple organizations. Cunningham, who joined Andy and Randy on The Midday Show on 92.9 The Game, discussed working alongside several legendary general managers and navigating teams at various stages of development—experiences he believes have fully prepared him to take the reins in Atlanta.
All Star Jalen Johnson: Hawks 'are building something good'
Atlanta Hawks Forward Jalen Johnson was selected to his first All Star team as a member of the Eastern Conference Reserves, and he joined Andy and Randy on The Midday Show on 92.9 The Game on Monday afternoon and expressed his excitement not only for his recognition, but also for the future of the Hawks. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Is Jalen Johnson a lock to be selected as an All Star reserve?
It was pretty common when Trae Young was a member of the Atlanta Hawks to be snubbed from the All Star Game and with the list of All Star reserves coming out sometime next week, is Jalen Johnson set up to be selected or could he miss out too and would it be for the same reasons that Trae did? Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Did one Kevin Stefanski response reveal the Falcons plans at QB?
Falcons Head Coach Kevin Stefanski held his introductory press conference on Tuesday alongside President of Football Matt Ryan and addressed a number of topics, including the development of Michael Penix Jr., but one topic he didn't address might ultimately have been the most telling response he had. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
What would the Hawks be willing to part with for Giannis?
According to Shams Charania, Giannis Antetokounmpo is open to a potential move away from the Milwaukee Bucks, either before the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline or in the offseason. As teams prepare to make massive offers for the Greek superstar, Andy and Randy break down what the Hawks could put on the table—and where they’d draw the line. Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
OC Tommy Rees to call plays for Falcons, not HC Kevin Stefanski
One of the bigger questions many asked after the Atlanta Falcons hired Kevin Stefanski to be the head coach was who would call the plays on offense, and it was made clear today n a sit-down interview with Andy and Randy of The Midday Show that OC Tommy Rees is going to call the plays and Coach Stefanski explained his thought process behind that decision.
Tommy Rees officially named Atlanta Falcons Offensive Coordinator
While the partnership had been widely reported even before Kevin Stefanski was officially hired as head coach, it has now been confirmed that Tommy Rees will serve as the Atlanta Falcons’ offensive coordinator. Rees spent the past two seasons with Stefanski in Cleveland and took over play-calling duties for the final nine games of the 2025 season. While Rees will play a key role in reshaping Atlanta’s offense, the team has not yet announced who will call plays in 2026.
Bucs–Falcons rivalry intensifies with Mayfield-Stefanski history
Kevin Stefanski arrives in Atlanta with a mixed track record when it comes to quarterback development, though his most notable success came early in the career of current Buccaneers starter Baker Mayfield. That relationship eventually unraveled in Cleveland, as a shoulder injury and uneven play derailed Mayfield’s tenure. After requesting a trade—one the Browns initially resisted but ultimately granted—Mayfield moved on, though it’s clear the way his time in Cleveland ended still lingers.
Kevin Stefanski must call his own plays as Falcons head coach
Falcons fans wanted an experienced, offensive-minded play-caller when the team began its head coaching search, and despite a career losing record, Kevin Stefanski fits that description. The concern is whether he intends to actually handle play-calling duties in Atlanta, something he relinquished at times during his final seasons with the Cleveland Browns.
Matt Ryan is 'dialed in & will do the work' says NFL Analyst
Matt Ryan led the Atlanta Falcons through some of the most successful seasons in franchise history, and now he’s being asked to help shape the organization in a new way—as an executive. NFL analyst and insider Mark Schlereth believes Ryan is well equipped for the transition, pointing to recent examples of former players thriving in front-office roles.
Matt Ryan pledges hands-off approach to GM decisions
Since the Falcons announced Saturday that former quarterback Matt Ryan would be hired as the team’s newly created President of Football, questions have swirled about who will make final roster and personnel decisions. Ryan addressed those concerns at his introductory press conference Monday, emphasizing that he does not plan to overrule or interfere with the work of the head coach or general manager, instead empowering them to “go out there and do their job.”
Matt Ryan's Falcons return: Visionary hire or PR stunt?
Falcons owner Arthur Blank used his season-ending press conference Thursday to outline the responsibilities of the franchise’s newly created President of Football position. And while the idea of former quarterback Matt Ryan stepping into the role may sound like a PR play at first glance, Joe Patrick explained on Andy and Randy why Ryan’s football intelligence and organizational credibility make him a legitimate candidate — regardless of how difficult the rebuild might be.
Arthur Blank: 'I’m not patient, we have the players'
Arthur Blank joined Mike Conti for an exclusive interview as the Falcons have wrapped up their season and, after firing Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot, are headed towards a pivotal offseason. The Falcons Owner shared his thoughts on the current state of the team and why he directly understands the current frustrations of the Falcons fanbase.
Would hiring John Harbaugh force Falcons to adjust planned power structure?
In the wake of Sunday night’s firings of Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot, the Falcons have been linked to the creation of a President of Football Operations role, a position that would oversee the hiring of both a general manager and a head coach. Former quarterback Matt Ryan has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the job.
Falcons rework Kirk Cousins’ contract, face potential $68M cap hit
Even without a head coach or general manager in place, the Falcons are already making franchise-shaping moves. On Tuesday, the team reportedly reworked quarterback Kirk Cousins’ contract, shifting money around in a move that could leave Atlanta facing a $67.9 million cap hit if the deal vests on March 13. Such a hit would significantly limit Atlanta’s roster flexibility, making it all but certain the team will decide on Cousins’ future before that deadline.
Would trading Trae Young mean the Hawks are facing a reset?
Over the past 24 hours, multiple reports have indicated that the Hawks, Trae Young, and his representatives are working collaboratively to facilitate a trade away from Atlanta. While the organization has been reluctant in recent years to move its franchise player, a combination of injuries to Young and other key contributors this season—along with his looming free agency and $49 million player option—has made this the right moment for the front office to pivot, move Trae, and begin a reset.
Arthur Blank: Falcons 'should be competing at a higher level'
The Falcons made their announcement just a few hours after their season-ending victory over the New Orleans Saints, they are parting ways with both Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot. Despite ending the year on a 4-game winning streak, Atlanta Falcons Owner Arthur Blank felt the team simply fell too short of expectations and made the decision to make those changes.
Kirk Cousins goes viral — and earns respect from NFL’s best minds
The question began innocently enough, but it was Cousins’ response that drew attention. When Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins detailed how his progressions and reads have evolved over the course of his career—adjusting to the changing landscape of modern pass defenses—it impressed many, including some of pro football’s top analysts.
How will Jalen Johnson's role change when Trae Young returns?
Trae Young has missed all but four games this season, and in his absence, Jalen Johnson has elevated his play to another level. Johnson is currently in the midst of a four-game triple-double streak, prompting questions about how the Hawks will look once Young returns. While appearing on The Midday Show, Hawks broadcaster Mike Conti was asked whether Johnson could be the team’s No. 1 option when Young comes back—and his response was telling.
Does Kristaps Porzingis' undisclosed illness make him untradeable?
Atlanta Hawks center Kristaps Porzingis, who has missed six of the team’s last seven games, is expected to be sidelined for at least two more weeks due to an undisclosed illness. Availability has long been one of the primary concerns surrounding Porzingis, and this latest absence only reinforces those questions.
Could a strong close to the season save Raheem’s job?
It’s been a rough season for the Atlanta Falcons, one that many feel should cost Head Coach Raheem Morris his job. But after a hard-fought win on Thursday Night Football against the Bucs, some are wondering whether a strong close to the Falcons’ season—made possible by several favorable remaining opponents—could end up keeping Raheem in place. There is reason to believe Raheem Morris could receive a third season as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.
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