Update to an earlier report: This article includes new information about a story we previously covered. Read our earlier report.
Atlanta could see a $45 million to $55 million economic impact from losing the SEC Championship Game, according to David Epps, CEO of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. Epps said he would imagine the impact “probably” falls in that range.
The SEC says 2026 will be the final championship game before the College Football Playoff expands from 12 teams to 24 in 2027. Epps said the expanded calendar leaves no room for the SEC game. The weekend traditionally set aside for conference championships is likely to become the playoff’s first round.
The game has brought thousands of fans to downtown Atlanta each December, filling the stadium and nearby hotels, bars and restaurants. Atlanta has hosted all but two SEC Championship Games, first at the Georgia Dome and later at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Epps said Atlanta will continue to host a Chick-fil-A playoff game after the SEC Championship Game leaves the schedule.
Marcus Jones
News Now Georgia
