Post-Gazette Sports Network: Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and more

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo give their thoughts on a rousing victory against the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Specifically, they weigh in on the offense's performance. Have Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington and others shown fans enough to believe in the unit? Or do we still need to be in wait-and-see mode with OC Arthur Smit's group? Later, they ponder the defense's improvements. Was the dominance of rookie QB Dillon Gabriel a product of the opposition? Or are names like Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Patrick Queen and Derrick Harmon beginning to figure things out after a rocky start to the season? Especially in run defense where they shut down rookie running back Quinshon Judkins? Out duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise react LIVE to the Steelers' NFL Week 6 matchup with the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Was coach Mike Tomlin's defense able to keep its momentum from the Dublin, Ireland win against the Minnesota Vikings going? Were names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon able to build on a six-sack effort with consistent pressure on Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel? How did the backfield shape up in Jaylen Warren's return from injury? And were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith and others able to have more downfield passing success? Our duo tackles those questions and more. The stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the game's conclusion on CBS. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily College Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado react to Penn State's firing of James Franklin as coach after a three-game losing streak vs. Oregon, UCLA and Nothwestern. Was this the right time for athletic director Pat Kraft to make a move? What's the outlook for this team the rest of the season under interim coach Terry Smith? How much is QB Drew Allar to blame? Or is this a case of Franklin and OC Andy Kotelnicki letting their signal caller down? And where do names like Curt Cignetti, Kenny Dillingham, Kalen DeBoer, Will Stein and Matt Rhule belong in the pecking order of potential replacements? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac & Ray Fittipaldo recap an NFL Week 6 victory against the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acirusre Stadium. They explain how Nick Herbig, Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon and others were able to generate so much pressure on Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel; why Patrick Queen and the run defense were able to shut down dangerous rookie RB Quinshon Judkins; and a productive day from Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense, which was able to move the ball both through the air and on the ground for coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 34-31 win over Florida State on Saturday, with Stephen reporting from Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Fla. How were Pat Narduzzi's Panthers able to pull of the upset on the road? What made the contest so "personal" for Desmond Reid, as he put it, and how much of a difference does he make for the Panthers offense? How did true freshman Mason Heintschel perform in a hostile environment, and how was he able to pick himself up after a couple of bad mistakes at the end of the first half? And how were the offensive and defensive lines, which were both shorthanded due to injuries, able to make enough plays for the win? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to trades by the Cleveland Browns ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup between the two teams on Sunday. Do coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and Co. deserve credit for being aggressive about wining in 2025? With big moves for names like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and others this offseason? Especially now that the team has a comfortable lead in the AFC North division? Or is there validity to the Browns' approach of building for the future, with deals this week involving Joe Flacco and Greg Newsome on expiring contracts? Our duo tackles those questions, then makes game picks and ponders whether Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel is ready to handle the heat from Steelers defensive stars including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Derrick Harmon and Keeanu Benton. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable preview the Panthers' noon contest on Saturday against No. 25 Florida State at Doak Campbell Stadium. Can true freshman QB Mason Heintschel lead the Panthers to another win, this time against a ranked opponent in a hostile environment? How pivotal of a game is this for Pitt, and what will we learn about them by the time it's over? What Pitt players/matchups should we pay attention to? Stephen and Abby also give the scouting report for the Seminoles and give their picks for the game and keys to win. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's Thursday practice ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. They give their thoughts on comments by DC Teryl Austin and OC Arthur Smith. Specifically, the ponder whether Austin has unlocked T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon after they tallied six sacks in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings. Can those results continue? Or was the big day a one-off? How involved can Austin get inside linebackers like Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson within the rush? And when will we get to see a complete secondary that includes a healthy Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions and ways Smith is working with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Darnell Washington. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Cleveland.com and Plain-Dealer Browns insider Ashley Bastock to preview the NFL Week 6 matchup with the Steelers. What's going on with the team at QB following the Joe Flacco trade. Is Dillon Gabriel ready to be the starter for the rest of the season? And how does Shedeur Sanders figure into the mix as coach Kevin Stefanski prepares to match wits with Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers? How will the latest Myles Garrett vs. T.J. Watt matchup unfold? And how has former Steeler Devin Bush been able to find success with an AFC North rival? Our duo tackles those questions and more Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of their Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, Post-Gazette insider Abby Schnable and former Panthers player Cat Flood take a look at everything surrounding the team after last weekend's wins over Clemson and Georgia Tech. What can Pitt take away from its victories over the Tigers and Yellow Jackets? Are the Panthers being disrespected at No. 4 in the AVCA rankings, behind Kentucky, a team they've already beaten this season in straight sets? How is the team evolving as the season goes on? How has last season's AVCA Player of the Year Olivia Babcock improved her defense? Plus, Cat shares some of her experiences playing professionally in Peru. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m. Eastern, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise weighs in on the Cleveland Browns QB situation ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Should T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and the Steelers defense be happy about facing rookie Dillon Gabriel within the AFC North? Or would they have preferred to face Joe Flacco, who was traded to the Bengals this week? And did Browns coach Kevin Stefanski make the right choice in Gabriel over draft classmate Shedeur Sanders? Paul tackles those questions as well as the Steelers' tight-end usage with Pat Freiermuth seeing limited reps next to Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith. Is it the right move for QB Aaron Rodgers and OC Arthur Smith's unit? Or should he be a big part of the passing game along with names like DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado evaluate the state of the program after a costly upset loss at UCLA. Is there anything coach James Franklin can do to escape the toxicity surrounding his job? Does his future deserve to be in question given the elevated commitments the Penn State community has made to the program in recent years? Was Jim Knowles the right hire at defensive coordinator? Or would Dani Dennis-Sutton and the defense have been better off with some continuity in the form of a position coach like Anthony Poindexter? And how much belief genuinely exists in the Penn State locker room after Drew Allar's confident statements that the team can still make the College Football Playoff? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko ponder Pat Freiermuth's lack of usage early this season. Is his lack of presence in the passing game a problem for OC Arthur Smith and QB Aaron Rodgers? Has it simply made more sense to get the ball to other targets including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington? And how much could his role in the offense change depending upon who the Steelers are playing in a given week? Do the Cleveland Browns in NFL Week 6 present a better matchup? Our duo tackles those questions, plus a flurry of AFC North trades this week, including Joe Flacco to the Bengals and Alohi Gilman to the Ravens in exchange for Odafe Oweh. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5:30 p.m. Eastern, Post-Gazette columnist Paul Zeise previews the Penguins season ahead of their opener Tuesday against the New York Rangers. Should fans steel themselves for another year of losing? Can Sidney Crosby continue his excellent play? Is this the last ride for longtime stars like Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang? Will new coach Dan Muse inject some life into the club? Will veterans like Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell be on the roster at the end of the season? And how will young prospects like Rutger McGroarty, Ville Koivunen, Ben Kindel and Harrison Brunicke factor in? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap coach Mike Tomlin's news conference at the team's UPMC Rooney Sports Complex ahead of their NFL Week 6 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. What do the expected returns of Joey Porter Jr., Alex Highsmith and Jaylen Warren mean for the Steelers heading into two division contests in five days? Will Jalen Ramsey (hamstring) and Calvin Austin III (shoulder) suit up? Will names like Chuck Clark, Juan Thornhill and Jabrill Peppers play more at safety if Ramsey is limited? And how will the tight ends be used against the stout Browns defense? Could Pat Freiermuth break out in the passing game? Or will it be more run packages with Darnell Washington? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the WPIAL regular season has only three weeks remaining, will Ben Hays, running back from small Bentworth High, win the WPIAL rushing title? Our high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White play the "yay" or "nay" game on will anyone score on Clairton again this regular season? Will New Castle freshman phenom Marino take a spot among the elite freshmen in WPIAL history. Fox Chapel kicker Harran Zureikat set a WPIAL record last with a field goal and is one shining star, along with Mars' Ayden Yocum. We have predictions for the big games of Mars vs. McKeesport, Chartiers Valley at Trinity, Bishop Canevin vs. Fort Cherry, Leechburg vs. Clairton, South Side vs. Neshannock and Westinghouse vs. University Prep. Plus, we take a look back at former New Castle star Bruce Clark, one of the WPIAL's all-time greats who last week was inducted into the first New Castle Hall of Fame class. For more sports, visit Post-Gazette.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Jason Mackey and Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo look ahead to the Browns game and the impending return of starters Joey Porter Jr. and Alex Highsmith. Will the Steelers need to change anything schematically with the reinforcements? Plus, a look at the crazy week in the NFL and where the Steelers stack up in the AFC North and the conference overall. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's PG Pitt Show, Panthers insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable look ahead to this weekend's road clash with Florida State. Has new quarterback Mason Heintschel stepped in to save Pitt's season? What are reasonable expectations for him? Can this still be the team we thought they could be in August? Plus, Pitt's defense has been elite. Steps forward from Cruce Brookins, Blaine Spires and others make it possible. There's a chess match between Pat Narduzzi/Randy Bates and Gus Malzahn coming up Saturday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo open Browns week with a look at the surprising role of the tight ends. Did Darnell Washington prove he is more valuable then Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith with his run blocking in the Steelers' latest win over the Vikings? And after watching the AFC North disasters this past weekend, is the road clear for the Steelers to win the division? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 48-7 win over Boston College on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. What went into coach Pat Narduzzi's decision to bench Eli Holstein and put in true freshman Mason Heintschel? And why was Heintschel able to have success? How was Heintschel able to rally the whole team around him? What kind of trickle-down effect did that have on the rest of the roster? And what does this say about the freshman QB heading into next week's much tougher task — at Florida State? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette columnist Paul Zeise will go live to talk about the Steelers at the bye week. Has Aaron Rodgers fully developed chemistry with his Steelerss teammates, especially DK Metcalf? How far can he take this offense as he gets more comfortable playing in Arthur Smith's system? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko take a look at where the Steelers sit heading into their bye week. Are the Steelers good enough to win the AFC North, with Lamar Jackson injured and the Baltimore Ravens struggling? Or is this 3-1 start just a mirage buoyed by a weak schedule? Could the Cincinnati Bengals make some noise late if Joe Burrow returns? Or are they too far gone without him to pass to receivers like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins? Chris and Brian also give their AFC North Week 5 predictions as the Steelers stay home for their bye week. Will the Ravens bounce back against the offensively challenged Texans with Lamar Jackson's status up in the air? Will the Bengals find their footing behind Jake Browning against the high-flying Lions? And how will Dillon Gabriel fare in his first career start for the Browns against the Vikings in London? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette columnist Paul Zeise will talk about the status of the Steelers at the bye week. How good can this defense led by T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey and Co. be when at full strength with the likes of Alex Highsmith ? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable preview the Panthers' noon contest on Saturday against Boston College at Acrisure Stadium. Is this a must-win game for the Panthers after their disappointing defeat to Louisville last week? Should we believe coach Pat Narduzzi when he says he's sticking with Eli Holstein as his starting quarterback? Will electrifying All-American Desmond Reid play after sitting out last week and most of the Backyard Brawl? What does the decision to redshirt Censere Lee and Keith Gouveia mean for the future of the Panthers offense? Stephen and Abby also break down all you need to know about Boston College. How can the Panthers get to QB Dylan Lonergan and his favorite WRs Lewis Bond and Reed Harris? Will Pitt have a chance to execute against the Eagles' lackluster red-zone defense? And how can the offense take advantage of the hole left behind by Donovan Ezeiruaku, who now plays for the Cowboys in the NFL? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's episode of Chipped Ham and Football, Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Jimmy English of Gaelic Gridiron, discussing the Steelers in Dublin, more NFL international expansion and T.J. Watt's candidacy for NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Did Steeler Nation leave a lasting impact on Ireland during their trip? What would a return to Dublin look like? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of her Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, Post-Gazette insider Abby Schnable welcomes Panthers freshman Izzy Masten. Izzy talks about the reasons she decided to graduate high school early and the ways she's had to adjust to collegiate, high-level volleyball. Izzy also talks about her role so far this season, as she's made waves from the service line and even made "SportsCenter" with one of her many defensive plays. Izzy also gives her takeaways from Pitt's season so far and gives her keys to a successful rest of the season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise looks at the state of the AFC and why the Steelers have an actual shot to win the whole conference. Will injuries to Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson essentially hand the AFC North to the Steelers? Just how scary are the Chiefs, Bills and others? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of The North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the team at the bye week. Will Calvin Austin III's injury lead to more playing time for the likes of Roman Wilson? And have injuries to the Bengals and Ravens opened the door for an AFC North title? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder the sustainability of some standout performances from the NFL Week 4 win against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. Can names like DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell, Nick Herbig and Payton Wilson keep producing as they did Sunday? Why was OC Arthur Smith able to get the running game going with Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson? What will happen to the receiver group if Calvin Austin III is forced to miss time while injured? When will Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith get more involved in the offense? Where is coach Mike Tomlin's team fitting into the AFC Noth race? And how impactful is DeShon Elliott within DC Teryl Austin's defense? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Heading into the seventh week of the football season, Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White examine the subject of WPIAL teams looking for mercy. Also, exactly who is the No. 1 team in Class 4A? Anyone? It's time to say who the top 10 teams are in the first 25 years of this century. Trinity's Jonah Williamson and Hempfield's Dom Detruf are shining stars. While "Famous" Amos Glenn of Freeport scores big in the Post-Gazette Fantasy League. The guys also predict top games, including Montour at New Castle, Norwin at Hempfield, South Fayette at Upper St. Clair and Moon at Peters Township. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable tackle the biggest questions around Pitt football following an ugly loss to Louisville over the weekend. Does coach Pat Narduzzi have a QB controversy on his hands amid Eli Holstein's recent struggles? When could we see more of Cole Gonzales or Mason Heinstchel? What's the plan at left guard after Kieth Goueva went down with a season-ending injury? And what should fans make of concerning quotes from the Cardinals' D'Angelo Hutchinson and co-DC Ron English about facing Pitt and what worked for them in their Acrisure Stadium victory? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the Steelers' NFL Week 4 victory against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. Did coach Mike Tomlin's team establish its desired identity in stopping Jordan Mason and the Vikings running game; getting heave pressure on QB Carson Wentz with T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton, Patrick Queen and others; and achieving success in the running game wit Kaleb Johnson and especially surprise starter Kenneth Gainwell, who filled in admirably for Jaylen Warren? Do we still need to see more from the passing game? Especially TEs Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith after Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf seemed to get their connection going on Sunday? And how will this team navigate injuries in the secondary to names like Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions, plus storylines to watch during the upcoming off week. Where can coordinators Arthur Smith and Teryl Austin make the biggest adjustments? Will the Ravens continue their early struggles? Or will they start making up ground on the Steelers in the AFC North after a brutal early-season schedule? And are the Colts and Jaguars emerging as threats in the AFC? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Brian Batko break down the team's 24-21 win over the Vikings on Sunday morning at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland. What went right for the Steelers? How did the defense improve to stop the run and stuff the Vikings on third downs while also continuing to force turnovers? With Jaylen Warren out due to a knee injury, how was Kenneth Gainwell able to shoulder that load with a career-best performance, and what does that mean for the team going forward? How were Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf finally able to connect with some big plays? And with the Steelers heading into the bye week 3-1, have they positioned themselves well for the rest of the season? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Insider coverage of the Pittsburgh Steelers from the Post-Gazette insiders who know them best: Gerry Dulac, Ray Fittipaldo, Brian Batko, Christopher Carter, Jason Mackey and Paul Zeise. From Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense. To T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Cam Heyward and coach Mike Tomlin's defense. They have the up-close view of the team that you can only get from the Post-Gazette. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Penn State insiders Isaiah Maldonado and Lyle Alenstein break down the Nittany Lions' 30-24 double-overtime loss to Oregon on Saturday at Beaver Stadium. What led to the defeat? How should we rate QB Drew Allar's performance after he struggled for much of the game but helped erase a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit and nearly clawed Penn State to a victory? How concerned should the Nittany Lions be about their rushing attack, as Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton were largely held in check by the Ducks? What does this loss mean for Penn State's Big Ten title hopes and spot in the College Football Playoff? And why can James Franklin never seem to get over the hump and win these big games? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 34-27 loss to Louisville on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. What went wrong for Pat Narduzzi's team after the Panthers leapt out to a 17-0 lead in the early going? What's next for the quarterback position in Kade Bell's offense after Eli Holstein was benched in the fourth quarter? Could we really see Cole Gonzales or even freshman Mason Heintschel start over him? How can the Panthers clean up many of the issues that plagued them against the Cardinals, including penalties and a lack of execution, especially on third downs? Where do the Panthers stand injury-wise? And what does this loss in their ACC opener mean for them going forward? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Saturday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko break down the team's Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin. Will Mike Tomlin's handling of this week's Ireland trip end up becoming a benefit or a failure in logistics? And with the Steelers' current defensive weaknesses, does the Vikings' upstart offense featuring Carson Wentz, Jordan Mason, Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson offer them a chance to fix their issues before the quarter-point of the 2025 NFL regular season? Can T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Patrick Queen, Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr. help Pittsburgh's defense rebound on Sunday morning? Also, can Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren and DK Metcalf have better success early in games to help the Steelers get an early lead against a blitz-happy defense? Our guys wrap up with their final Week 4 predictions and discuss whether they believe the Steelers can fix their weaknesses with a bye week on tap. For more sports, visit post-gazette.com. For more sports, visit post-gazette.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable preview the Panthers' ACC opener against Louisville at noon Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. Will Desmond Reid be able to go for Pitt, and if he does, will it be in a full capacity? How can players like Juelz Goff and Ja'Kyrian Turner step up if the All-American is unable to play? How should Pat Narduzzi's team prepare, with the status of star Cardinals running backs Isaac Brown and Duke Watson up in the air? If Brown and Watson aren't able to play, can Louisville QB Miller Moss control the passing game against Pitt's defense that includes stars like Kyle Louis and Rasheem Biles? Can Pitt QB Eli Holstein and WRs like Poppi Williams and Kenny Johnson shoulder the burden if Reid isn't able to play? Our duo answers those questions and more, plus gives their predictions and keys to the game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of their Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, Post-Gazette insider Abby Schnable and former Panthers player Cat Flood break down the team's five-set win over No. 11 SMU on Wednesday night. How important was it for Pitt to get off on the right foot during ACC play? How did reigning AVCA National Player of the Year Olivia Babcock step up to lead the Panthers to victory? How was Brooke Mosher able to continue her impressive streak against the Mustangs? What areas, like unforced errors and defensive intensity, can the Panthers fix before the two teams face off again on Sunday in Pittsburgh? Abby and Cat answer those questions, plus break down the top players in a loaded ACC position by position. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Thursday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to react to comments by former Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger fearing that Mike Tomlin, OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin could be outcoached in the NFL Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. How much stock should fans put in Roethlisberger's comments as someone who knows the team well? Does he have a justified lack in faith in Tomlin and Co.? Or is he simply impressed by names like Kevin O'Connell and Brian Flores in Minnesota? And how much should his thoughts on Broderick Jones and the offensive line concern the fan base? Our duo tackles those questions. Then Jason gives his exclusive scoop on the scene in Dublin ahead of the game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado preview this week's White Out matchup against the Oregon Ducks at Beaver Stadium. Is Drew Allar the better QB in this game in his third year as a starter? Or does Ducks QB Dante Moore have the edge after posting superiors stats in the early going? How should we size up the two running games, with Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton leading Penn State against a dynamic Oregon group that includes Jayden Limar, Dierre Hill Jr. and Noah Whittington? And can Trebor Pena, Kyron Hudson and Devonte Ross make a bigger impression than Penn State's receivers have in several years? Our duo tackles those questions; the readiness level of DC Jim Knowles' defense, led by Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zane Durant; expectations for the environment as the biggest White Out game in several years; and the stakes for coach James Franklin and both teams in the Associated Press Top 25 poll and College Football Playoff race. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The high school football regular season is at the halfway point, and Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White turn professor and give out mid-term grades for student (player) of the half year, teacher (coach) of the half year and more. Peters Township’s Reston Lehman and Lucas Shanafelt get their flowers, but so does Upper St. Clair’s Ethan Hellmann. South Allegheny’s Brian Hanson and Norwin’s Mike Brown get shutouts for their coaching jobs in the first half. Also, Matt Sieg set a touchdown record last week, so where should he stand among great WPIAL players? Our duo make their picks for the Post-Gazette Fantasy League, and make predictions on this week’s top six games – Upper St. Clair at Peters Township, Central Catholic at North Allegheny, North Catholic at Imani Christian, Aliquippa at New Castle, Bethel Park at Moon and Westinghouse vs. Allderdice in the Pittsburgh City League. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The high school football regular season is at the halfway point, and Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White turn professor and give out mid-term grades for student (player) of the half year, teacher (coach) of the half year and more. Peters Township’s Reston Lehman and Lucas Shanafelt get their flowers, but so does Upper St. Clair’s Ethan Hellmann. South Allegheny’s Brian Hanson and Norwin’s Mike Brown get shutouts for their coaching jobs in the first half. Also, Matt Sieg set a touchdown record last week, so where should he stand among great WPIAL players? Our duo make their picks for the Post-Gazette Fantasy League, and make predictions on this week’s top six games – Upper St. Clair at Peters Township, Central Catholic at North Allegheny, North Catholic at Imani Christian, Aliquippa at New Castle, Bethel Park at Moon and Westinghouse vs. Allderdice in the Pittsburgh City League. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey and insider Ray Fittipaldo gauge the Steelers' growth through three games. Is coach Mike Tomlin's defense improving, even if it's still giving up too many yards? How encouraged should we be that T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward produced like the stars they're supposed to be in NFL Week 3 against the New England Patriots? Is RB Jaylen Warren's elevated role in the offense a good thing? Do he and fellow RB Kenneth Gainwell have any chance for success behind a struggling offensive line that includes Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? Have those guys shown progress themselves? And what did we learn about DBs Jaylen Ramsey and Jabrill Peppers in facing Drake Maye and the Patriots? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable continue to sort through the issues the Panthers' Backyard Brawl loss to West Virginia revealed. And look ahead to the start of ACC play this week against the Louisville Cardinals. Was Pat Narduzzi's coaching or player execution the bigger issue against the Mountaineers? Can fans reasonably expect the team to improve when veterans like QB Eli Holstein and OL Lyndon Cooper are the guys making the big mistakes? Are there any personnel changes Narduzzi, OC Kade Bell or DC Randy Bates should consider this week? What's Desmond Reid's status at RB? And how does our duo see the WR situation playing out with Blue Hicks and others? Stephen and Abby tackle those questions and more. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates beat reporter Noah Hiles names his top five prospects from the team's minor league system this year. Can Brandan Bidois continue to assert himself as a potential MLB arm despite his relative unknown status? Why have Esmerlyn Valdez and Edward Florentino emerged as two of the top hitting prospects in the system? And why were Hunter Barco and Konnor Griffin the obvious top choices as the minor league players of the year? Noah tackles those questions and more. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter & Ray Fittipaldo react to the NFL Week 3 victory against the New England Patriots. Should coach Mike Tomlin be encouraged that Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Jabrill Peppers, Cole Holcomb and Brandin Echols were able to generate five turnovers on defense? Or is it a concern that Patriots QB Drake Maye was still able to move the ball in between those big plays? Can this unit really rely on that amount of ball luck in subsequent weeks? Or does DC Teryl Austin still need to figure out how to limit opposing offenses better? Our duo tackles those questions, then gives thoughts on the offense as well. Does OC Arthur Smith need to consider passing more with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith to open up running lanes for Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Or was the first drive evidence that this unit can run the ball if Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and the offensive line are performing? Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to an NFL Week 3 victory against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. They offer thoughts on Aaron Rodgers' inconsistent effort at QB that included touchdowns to Calvin Austin III and DK Metcalf but frustration in between. And a up-and-down day for Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell behind the offensive line led by Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu. Our duo also weighs in on coach Mike Tomlin's defense, which generated five turnovers thanks to names like Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Cole Holcomb and Jabrill Peppers. But also yielded significant yardage to Patriots QB Drake Maye, signaling that some of the unit's recent woes may be persisting. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 3 matchup with the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Were Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Keeanu Benton, Jalen Ramsey and coach Mike Tomlin's defense able to bounce back after a couple of rough outings to open the season? Did Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu perform better up front? What chemistry was QB Aaron Rodgers able to establish with receivers including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith? And where do the team stand with high-profile matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Ireland looming next week? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Saturday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko break down the team's Week 3 matchup against the New England Patriots. Will Pittsburgh's defensive struggles and frustrations continue to build against an upstart offense led by Drake Maye, TreVeyon Henderson and Stefon Diggs, or will we continue to see inefficiency from the likes of T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward? Will Mike Tomlin also make the necessary adjustments in the secondary to prevent deep completions that have been allowed so far by the likes of Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr.? Our guys wrap up with their final Week 3 predictions, and whether they believe the Steelers can get back to above .500 before their Ireland trip. For more sports, visit post-gazette.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.