Top spots to watch the National Championship game in Atlanta

The final matchup is upon us. The No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs are preparing to take on the No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Game day is Jan. 8 at Atlanta’s new Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and college football fans from all over the country will flock to the city to catch the tournament. The game starts at 8 p.m.

Not able to cheer from the stands? No worries. We’ve rounded up the top spots to tailgate or watch the big showdown.

National Championship Tailgate

Stay close to the action at the Tailgate House located right next to the stadium. The rain-or-shine event will offer a cash bar and delicious food options throughout the entire day. Attendees will also get to enjoy the game on two massive high-definition TVs.

Starts at 2 p.m. $75. Tailgate House Lot, 61 Elliott St. SW, Atlanta. info@tailgatehouse.com, tailgatehouse.com.

Hobnob Neighborhood Tavern

Both the Brookhaven and Midtown locations will throw parties. A full lineup of game-day faves, including shots, festive cocktails and craft brews, will be available for fans as they cheer on the teams.

Free entry. Brookhaven location, 804 Town Blvd., Atlanta. 404-464-8971. Midtown location, 1551 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-968-2288, hobnobatlanta. com.

Taco Mac

Munch on some yummy wings and sip on an ice cold one as the

players run up and down the field. With multiple televisions all around and screaming fans at every corner, there will be celebrations at many metro locations throughout the city.

Free entry. Various locations. tacomac.com.

Smokebelly BBQ

Order a rack of ribs and a basket of 50-cent wings at this barbecue joint. The restaurant will have all of your game-day needs, from a ton of drink deals to 14 TVs for the ultimate watch party experience.

Free entry. 128 E. Andrews Drive, Atlanta. 404-848-9100, smokebellybbq.com.

TEN ATL

Aside from the huge television screens and complimentary

food and drink specials, guests can also enjoy hookahs throughout much of the night.

6 p.m.-2 a.m. $10. 495 Flat Shoals Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404940-4777, eventbrite.com.

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar

The Virginia-Highland eatery is pulling out all the stops with game-time grub, a large beer selection and a slew of plasma TVs for everyone’s viewing pleasure.

Free entry. 794 N. Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404876-7249, atkinspark.com.

Marlow’s Tavern

Hang out at this famous Midtown spot for lots of classic dishes and plenty of booze. Meet fans from all over as you cheer on your favorite players.

Free entry. 950 W. Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta. 404-815-0323, marlowstavern.com.

CONTRIBUTED BY SMOKEBELLY BBQ Smokebelly BBQ is serving up ribs and booze for football fans.