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

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the team's QB situation. Do Mike Tomlin's comments in his season-ending news conference Tuesday indicate a preference for Justin Fields to start in 2025? Or does the coach still prefer Russell Wilson as he did for much of 2024? And how seriously should we take the chances of an outside candidate, either from the NFL draft or free agency? In segment two, Chris and Ray ponder George Pickens' future with the organization. Does he create too many headaches to bring back? Or does the offense's thin receivers room that includes names like Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson, Roman Wilson and Mike Williams make him too valuable? The our duo wraps the show by explaining why OC Arthur Smith likely isn't on the chopping block, despite his unit falling short down the stretch of season. And what he can do to get more out of the unit and pieces like Pat Freiermuth and Jaylen Warren moving forward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey weighs in on reports that Steelers receiver George Pickens was late for the team's NFL Week 17 Christmas Day game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Is this latest red flag within a series of them enough to prompt action from coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan? Should they extend Pickens' contract as he enters the last year of his rookie deal, given the lack of viable receivers behind him? Or should they either trade him or force him to prove himself in 2025? Jason also gives thoughts on Tomlin's comments about QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields at his year-end news conference Tuesday. Does Fields have a legit chance to be the starter in 2025? Or is this another Tomlin smokescreen? The show ends with analysis of another ugly Penguins loss Tuesday night, which included goalie Tristan Jarry coughing up yet another third-period lead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern with a focus on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's season-ending news conference following an NFL playoffs loss to the Baltimore Ravens. What should we make of Tomlin demurring on the question of whether WR George Pickens was late for the game against Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas? What should be done with Pickens moving forward? And how realistic would it be for Jets WR Davante Adams to join this team after saying he would "100%" like to play for Tomlin in Pittsburgh. Later, Paul also gets in QB talk. How much should we believe Tomlin's comments about them, given his enthusiastic support for Kenny Pickett last year before the trade that sent him to Philadelphia? Is Justin Fields a legitimate candidate to start in 2025? Is he the better option than bringing back Russell Wilson? Or is GM Omar Khan better off looking to trade, free agency or NFL draft options like Sam Darnold, Aaron Rodgers? Then later, Paul ponders how dangerous Penn State could be be as a College Football Playoff contender next season amid the announced returns of stars Drew Allar, Kaytron Allen, Nick Singleton and Dani Dennis-Sutton? 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 ESPN's Brooke Pryor to react to coach Mike Tomlin's season-ending news conference following the NFL playoffs loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Why did his comments seem "stale" to Brooke? Is he too comfortable in his role? What changes should be made to his coaching staff? And what hand should owner Art Rooney II have in shaking things up? Our duo tackles those questions and ponders OC Arthur Smith's future in the role after his unit that included playmakers like Najee Harris, George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth fizzled down the stretch. They also talk quarterbacks. Should we believe anything Tomlin said about Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, given his strong comments about Kenny Pickett last season that resulted in a trade out of the organization? 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 Pitt basketball mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette Panthers insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: How worried should coach Jeff Capel be about the team's March Madness chances amid its two-game ACC losing streak? Why did Capel stick with the same five players for extended periods in the loss to Louisville this past weekend? Is something wrong with Ishmael Leggett? Is it time to see more of Damian Dunn now that he's healthy? And could Zack Austin and Guillermo Diaz-Graham come off the bench? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey continues to react to the Steelers' season-ending loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL playoffs. Should owner Art Rooney II and GM Omar Khan consider firing DC Teryl Austin for the defense's backslide in the final games of the season? Should coach Mike Tomlin have less control over the unit and instead allow his coordinator to establish his own identity? And what does the unit need to do differently to get more out of stars including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr., Patrick Queen and Alex Highsmith? Later, Jason also explains why he feels Russell Wilson should not be the starter at QB in 2025 and analyzes the Penguins' mess in goal with Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic both struggling. 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 columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. with a specific focus on the Steelers after their NFL playoffs loss to the Baltimore Ravens. What next steps should GM Omar Khan take in building his roster for 2025? Should he bring back Russell Wilson? Or look to build around a young quarterback like Justin Fields, as the Washington Commanders have with Jayden Daniels? Should he consider trading Minkah Fitzpatrick and his bloated contract? Where should Patrick Queen fit into the defense's equation after falling short of lofty expectations for his first season here? How can the team get more help for CB Joey Porter Jr. at cornerback? Or George Pickens at receiver via NFL free agency or the NFL draft? And where does Mike Tomlin fit into all of it? 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, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the team's NFL playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens and news that coach Mike Tomlin is expected to return in 2025, per a report by the PG's Gerry Dulac. What is owner Art Rooney II thinking in keeping Tomlin despite eight years without a playoff win and six consecutive postseason defeats? Is he looking to father Dan Rooney's example of keeping Bill Cowher as coach despite three straight years of missing the playoffs during his tenure? Then later, the discuss other possible moves beyond Tomlin. Could DC Teryl Austin be in trouble after his unit studded with stars including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr. and Patrick Queen struggled late in the year? What about offensive line coach Pat Meyer, who saw limited results from young linemen including Broderick Jones? Or defensive line coach Karl Dunbar, who failed to build depth behind Heyward with names including Keeanu Benton and Larry Ogunjobi? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Steelers' NFL playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Should Mike Tomlin's tenure have run its course after another postseason embarrassment? And how can Art Rooney II and ownership not see the lack of progress since the franchise's last playoff win in 2016? Jason ponders those questions and the quarterback situation. Should GM Omar Khan run it back with Russell Wilson in 2025 and beyond? Should the younger and more mobile Justin Fields get another look as the starter? Or should the franchise look toward the NFL draft for its next answer? The finally, Jason analyzes the secondary and potential fixes after Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and Donte Jackson struggled to stop the pass down the stretch. 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 the team's NFL playoffs loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Why have slow starts become such a problem for Mike Tomlin-coached teams in the postseason? Will yet another loss like this spur owner Art Rooney II to any action? Why couldn't the expensive defense led by T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Patrick Queen, Cam Heyward and Joey Porter Jr. do much to stop Ravens stars Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson? And what changes will come on offense after Russell Wilson, Najee Harris, George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth and teammates failed to score more than 17 points for a fifth consecutive game? 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 playoffs matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. 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 edition of First 10, columnist Jason Mackey takes a final look at the Steelers' wild card playoff game against the Ravens. Does Mike Tomlin need to trust Russell Wilson and air it out in Baltimore? Can George Pickens put his last few stinkers behind him and be a major factor? And can the defense get pressure on Lamar Jackson? Plus thoughts on the Pirates, what we like about Caleb Ferguson and why they should pursue Randal Grichuk, and what Penn State's loss should mean for James Franklin and Drew Allar. 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Steelers insider Brian Batko preview Pittsburgh's NFL playoffs opener against the Ravens in Baltimore. Why does there seem to be a lack of excitement around the game, both inside the locker room and in the fan base? Are the Steelers embracing their underdog status against the Ravens? And who comes out on top on wild card weekend? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joel Haas and Lyle Alenstein react to Penn State's gut-wrenching loss to Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinals Thursday night in Miami. Drew Allar's late interception set up the game-losing field goal, but why was he so bad throughout the night? How much blame does James Franklin deserve after another big-game loss? And how do the Nittany Lions recover and make another run in 2025? 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 columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. How much should Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith use quarterback Justin Fields in place of starter Russell Wilson in the NFL playoffs matchup with the Baltimore Ravens? Could Wilson's career be at stake in this game, with some pundits arguing it will be hard for him to find another starting job if he fails? What other roster changes may be coming if coach Mike Tomlin and Co. fall short? Paul tackles those questions and more and also looks ahead to Penn State's College Football Playoff semifinal at the Orange Bowl vs. Notre Dame. How much does James Franklin need this win for his legacy after a pair of playoff victories so far? Is Drew Allar or Riley Leonard the better quarterback in this game? And which injury looms larger — Abdul Carter’s for Penn State or Jeremiyah Love's for Notre Dame? 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 Brian Batko and Christopher Carter report from the team's final practice availability before its NFL playoffs matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. Why does the mood of the team seem upbeat despite a four-game losing streak to end the regular season? How are players including T.J. Watt, Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and others maintaining focus on delivering their first playoff wins in Steelers uniforms? What's the latest on injuries and illnesses for players including Cam Heyward, Chris Boswell, Mason McCormick and Donte Jackson? How much will Lamar Jackson and the Ravens miss top receiver Zay Flowers? How have Arthur Smith, Russell Wilson and Co. changed the offensive game plan since the loss to the Bengals last week? What impact could winter weather have on the game? And will George Pickens be able to step up after his recent slump? 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 his daily first 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to Pitt basketball's loss to Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium. What does Jeff Capel's squad need to fix as ACC play kicks into high gear? And can we at least be encouraged by the performance of Cam Corhen in defeat? Later, Jason gets into the Steelers' NFL playoffs matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Specifically, he ponders things OC Arthur Smith can do to get QB Russell Wilson, WR George Pickens, RB Najee Harris and the offense going in the first quarter after first-quarter struggles against the Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs and Bengals over the past month. Jason closes the show with his thoughts on the Penguins' loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday that included goalie Tristan Jarry giving up yet another multi-goal lead. 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 Joel Haas preview the College Football Playoff semifinal matchup against Notre Dame at the Orange Bowl. Does James Franklin need a win to shed his label of struggling to win big games for good? Or has he done enough with wins against SMU in the first round and Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl? And how important is it for Penn State as a program to beat a Fighting Irish program that's similarly fallen just short of joining the nation's elite programs? In terms of the matchup itself, does Penn State have the edge in star power with Drew Allar, Kaytron Allen, Nick Singleton, Abdul Carter and Tyler Warren? How many players should O Andy Kotelnicki and DC Tom Allen fear beyond Jeremiyah Love and Xavier Watts, with Rylie Mills out because of injury? What's the injury situation for Carter? Does Allar or Riley Leonard have more to prove in the QB matchup? And which opponent should Penn State prefer to see come out of the Cotton Bowl? A red-hot Ohio State team that they know? Or a talented Texas Longhorns team that they don't? 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, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo consider what's at stake for the team -- win or lose -- in its NFL playoffs matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. Is Mike Tomlin closer to the hot seat if he loses? Or validation if he wins in the eyes of GM Omar Khan and owner Art Rooney II? What about coordinators Teryl Austin and Arthur Smith? Does the front office led by Khan and assistant GM Andy Weidl have a higher opinion of this season than fans, upset with a long playoff win drought? Or could there still be changes to the coaching staff if the team falls short? In the second segment, Adam and Ray discuss the future of the the roster's core and how much hingers on a win vs. as loss. Are T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Cam Heyward assured of returning next season? Or would there be reason to doubt they could ever deliver in the postseason with another loss? What impact will the game have on extension talks with players including George Pickens? Could Pat Freiermuth or Alex Highsmith be on the trade block despite recent extensions of their own? And how important is it to see young players like Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton step up on the big stage? Then in the third segment, our duo wades into QB talk. Does Russell Wilson's future in Pittsburgh hinge on this game? How much of an impact could it have on his contract demands in NFL free agency? Will Justin Fields get a second look as the potential starter? And what are the chances outside options like the Jets' Aaron Rodgers could be considered? 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 Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson react to Pitt basketball's 29-point loss Tuesday night vs. Cooper Flagg and Duke. Was the blowout representative of where coach Jeff Capel's team stands at the start of ACC play? Or were there enough positives in the form of Cam Corhen and a competitive first half that fans shouldn't panic? How much concern would we have about Ishamel Leggett, who led the upset of the Blue Devils last season but struggled Tuesday? What about the lack of aggression from guards including Jaland Lowe and some poor shooting numbers? 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 sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Does Aaron Rodgers really make any sense for the Steelers as an NFL free agency or trade target if Russell Wilson struggles at QB in the playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens this weekend? As several prominent national pundits have suggested? If not, should Justin Fields or someone else be the answer for 2025? How much blame does Wilson deserve for the passing game's recent struggles? Or does George Pickens injury, then lack of productivity deserve more heat? And could coach Mike Tomlin find himself on the trade market if his team can't win this week? Paul tackles those topics, offers some thoughts on the Penguins at the midway point of their season and ponders Penn State's fate vs. Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Orange Bowl. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey previews Penn State's College Football Playoff semifinal matchup with Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl. Is coach James Franklin's team good enough to win the national title behind stars including Drew Allar, Tyler Warren, Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen? And how well do Abdul Carter and the Nittany Lions defense match up with QB Riley Leonard and the Notre Dame offense? Later, Jason ponders the Penguins' season at the midway point. Can coach Mike Sullivan get more out of star Evgeni Malkin? Should we be comfortable with Sidney Crosby's production? And can Tristan Jarry get on track in goal? Jason wraps the show by analyzing what a Steelers NFL playoffs victory against the Baltimore Ravens could look like. And Keeanu Benton and the defense get after QB Lamar Jackson? 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 previews the NFL playoffs matchup against the Ravens with former Baltimore tight end and podcaster Daniel Wilcox. Can Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin stymie star Ravens QB Lamar Jackson again? Or has the reigning league MVP figured out how to combat T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Patrick Queen, Joey Porter Jr. and the star-studded Steelers defense? Can Russell Wilson and the Steelers passing game have success against this Ravens secondary that's been vulnerable at times? Or will the attitude of George Pickens be among factors that slows OC Arthur Smith's offense like it did a few weeks ago? And what kind of relationship does Wilcox have with Tomlin after winning a Super Bowl with him with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers back in 2002? 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 their weekly Pitt sports mailbag video, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: Is Panthers standout Damian Dunn healthy enough to play Tuesday night vs. Duke? And do coach Jeff Capel, star Jaland Lowe and the squad have a chance to upset Cooper Flagg and the Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor Stadium? And on the football side, they ponder what transfer portal additions including Joey Zelinsky (Eastern Michigan), Andy Jean (Florida), Jayden Bonsu (Ohio State) and Blaine Spires (Utah State) could mean for coach Pat Narduzzi's program. 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 columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Do the Steelers have any chance in their NFL playoffs matchup with the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, considering how bad they've looked during their four-game losing streak? Do they still know more ways to stop Lamar Jackson than anyone else in the league? What factor will Mike Tomlin's past success vs. Ravens coach John Harbaugh play? He also has plenty of questions about the state of the team. What are Russell Wilson's biggest problems right now, and how can he fix them? Is George Pickens hurting more than he's helping? Did Arthur Smith have his worst game with the Steelers in the Week 18 loss to the Bengals? And does the defense deserve credit for slowing Bengals QB Joe Burrow after giving up a touchdown on the first drive? 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 columnist Jason Mackey offers 10 thoughts on the Steelers' NFL Week 18 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals during his daily First 10 podcast. What were coaches Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith thinking in pivoting away from Russell Wilson and the passing game? Has Wilson regressed to the point that GM Omar Khan should re-think his approach at the position next season? Why did Tomlin go for it on fourth down late in the half, essentially handing the Bengals three points when Jaylen Warren's run failed? What's going on with the offensive line? And has the time come to move on from tackle Dan Moore Jr.? What about receiver George Pickens, who had numerous costly drops and has not contributed much since returning from injury? How much of a future does Najee Harris have with the team? And what can be done to improve lacking secondary depth behind Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson? 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, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the team's NFL Week 18 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals and look ahead to the wild-card playoff matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. Have coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith begun to lose trust in QB Russell Wilson amid some costly turnovers and decisions in recent weeks? And do they need to re-gain that trust in order to have a chance against Lamar Jackson and Co. this week? What's missing in Wilson's connection with WR George Pickens? Do they have time to fix it? And is it time for Justin Fields to see some opportunities? Our duo tackles those questions, then turns attention to the defense. Has DC Teryl Austin's unit begun to figure things out after clamping down on Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Co.? Or is there still room for improvement? Could we continue to see Patrick Queen blitzing more than usual? And is the lack of interior pass rush beyond Cam Heyward hurting T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith outside? In the final segment, Ray and Chris give their early thoughts on the matchup with the Ravens. 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 the team's NFL Week 18 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Why did coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith abandon the pass-heavy attack led by Russell Wilson that worked against this opponent a month ago to focus on Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and the running game? Was the game plan too reliant on a regressing offensive line, with names like Dan Moore Jr. and Broderick Jones struggling? What should we make of tight end Pat Freiermuth's busy night as the leading receiver? How were Bengals QB Joe Burrow and WR Ja'Marr Chase able to have success against Cory Trice Jr., Joey Porter Jr., Minkah Fitzpatrick and the Steelers secondary? And what are the likely NFL playoff scenarios heading into the final day of the regular season Sunday? 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 sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Can QB Russell Wilson shake of his string of costly turnovers and build passing game momentum with targets including George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III and Mike Williams? How will Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris manage in the running game? Were offensive linemen including Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones and Dan Moore Jr. able to provide better protection? How did Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr and DeShon Elliott bounce back after a tough few weeks for the pass defense? And were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Alex Highsmith able to get better pressure on Bengals QB Joe Burrow? 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 columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Did Minkah Fitzpatrick really deserve his nod for the NFL Pro Bowl this year? Or did he coast to the honor off of reputation? Do selections for T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Chris Boswell make more sense? How much pressure is QB Russell Wilson under in NFL Week 18 vs. the Bengals? Could his job be threatened if the team doesn't win again this season? What should the next steps be with receiver George Pickens? And is Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley or Josh Allen the more deserving NFL MVP candidate? Paul answers those questions, reacts to the end of Pitt football season and offers some initial thoughts on Penn State's matchup with Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Orange Bowl. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey sizes up the NFL MVP race. Is the Buffalo Bills' Josh Allen the most deserving as the most irreplaceable player on the best team? How much consideration do Steelers AFC North rivals Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) and Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals) deserve? And where does Philadelphia Eagles RB and former Penn State great Saquon Barkley belong in the conversation amid his spectacular season? Jason tackles those questions, gives his thoughts on the Steelers' QB situation with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields amid the team's recent losing streak. 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to preview the NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Is this game a must-win to avoid a potential first-round matchup with the Baltimore Ravens and instead draw the struggling Texans? Is QB Russell Wilson's ability to avoid costly mistakes the key to an offensive turnaround? Or is the pressure on Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones, Dan Moore Jr. and the young offensive line to pave the way for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren to have rushing success? On defense, can T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith, Cam Heyward and the pass rush be more effective in getting home and sacking Joe Burrow to slow his connection with receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins? And can the return of Joey Porter Jr. help the secondary in coverage? Our duo tackles those questions, previews a busy slate of games around the NFL -- including the Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings for the No. 1 seed in the NFC -- and also gives predictions for how Steelers-Bengals will shake out. 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 columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news. Do former Steelers Hines Ward and James Harrison belong in the Pro Football Hall of Fame? Why do voters not see enough in their decorated resumes? And how should their resumes stack up against 2025 class finalists including Torry Holt, Reggie Wayne, Steve Smith and Terrell Suggs? Later, Paul gives his thoughts on the crucial NFL Week 18 matchup with the Bengals on Sunday. Then offers some thoughts on the College Football Playoff quarterfinal results. Are James Franklin, Drew Allar and Penn State serious threats to win the title after their Fiesta Bowl win against Boise State? Can anyone beat Ohio State after the Buckeyes' dominant win over No. 1 Oregon in the Rose Bowl? And should the SEC take a perception win after costly bowl losses? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey has New Year's resolutions for the Pirates, Penguins & Steelers. Why should GM Ben Cherington and the Pirates be most focused on getting more from players already on their roster, such as Ke'Bryan Hayes, Jack Suwinski and Henry Davis? As opposed to making moves in the MLB trade and free agency markets? And what could bounce-back seasons from these hitters do to support Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, Jared Jones and other members of the pitching staff? Does it make the most sense for Penguins GM Kyle Dubas to be looking to trade names such as Tristan Jarry, Rickard Rakell, Marcus Pettersson and others before the NHL trade deadline? And on the Steelers front, why are the futures of names like George Pickens, Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren so critical to the looming NFL offseason? 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 Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo report from Steelers practice ahead of an NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. They recap comments from DeShon Elliott and Teryl Austin on the defense's bickering following the Week 17 loss to Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs. Does Elliott regret any of his comments? Why does Austin believe the bickering is a healthy sign? What role has Minkah Fitzpatrick played in the defense's struggles against the past? And have communication issues been resolved in the week since the defeat? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: Could Cole Holcomb and Roman Wilson still return from long-term injury this season? And what will Joey Porter Jr. add to the defense after a shorter absence? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joel Haas and Lyle Alenstein react to Penn State's win over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl, which secured a spot for the Nittany Lions in the Orange Bowl and College Football Playoff semifinals against either Notre Dame or Georgia. Was the game too close for comfort with likely tougher challenges awaiting? How far can running backs Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton carry this team after another dominant performance on the ground? What about the Drew Allar and Tyler Warren passing connection that resulted in a pair of scores against the Broncos? What's the latest on Abdul Carter and Dani Dennis-Sutton, who both left the game with injuries? What does this win do for coach James Franklin's legacy? And should OC Andy Kotelnicki change up his play calling after going away from the running game while it was working? 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 Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the Steelers offense. Should getting George Pickens the ball be the No. 1 priority for Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith in the NFL Week 18 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals? Can the offensive line stand up long enough to protect Russell Wilson so he can make the right reads? How can Najee Harris get back on track as the team prepares for the postseason? Our duo tackles those topics and more, including the Steelers getting good news on the injury report; where Cole Holcomb and Roman Wilson stand in their returns to practice Tuesday; and whether it might be time for leadership to step in to stop the Steelers' current three-game skid heading into the playoffs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey previews the Fiesta Bowl between Penn State and Boise State with a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals on the line. Is Nittany Lions coach James Franklin right about the state of the sport and his call for Alabama Crimson Tide legend Nick Saban to be commissioner? Does Penn State's old-school approach of relying on home-grown talent like Drew Allar, Tyler Warren, Abdul Carter, Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen make it an easy program to root for in this transfer portal era? And what will the Lions need to do to beat Ashton Jeanty and the Broncos? Jason tackles those questions, checks in on former Steelers great WR Hines Ward at Arizona State and wonders if new Pitt AD is asking tough questions about coach Pat Narduzzi after a frustrating bowl loss to Toledo. 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 Pitt sports mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: Is football coach Pat Narduzzi winning the overall transfer portal battle after retaining the likes of Eli Holstein and Kyle Louis but losing players like Sincere Edwards and Ryland Gandy? Would our opinion of the season have been any different if the Panthers had won the GameAbove Sports Bowl vs. Toledo? When will the men's basketball team see guard Damian Dunn back on the court after he's missed the last month with an injury? And what is the biggest thing Jeff Capel's team needs to improve as it heads into ACC play? 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 Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo look ahead to an NFL Week 18 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Do coach Mike Tomlin and his players have enough time to get back in a groove ahead of the NFL playoffs? Could a potential first-round matchup with the Houston Texans -- as opposed to the Baltimore Ravens -- help in that pursuit ahead of tougher later-round matchups? And are Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and the red-hot Bengals the perfect test of adjustments on defense, led by T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick? Our duo tackles those topics, then dives deep on the offense. What's going on with the offensive line right night? From young guys including Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier to veterans like Isaac Seumalo and Dan Moore Jr.? Has the success of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren in recent weeks been legit? Or padded by game scripts? And can George Pickens lock in mentally to be the big-play threat that OC Arthur Smith and QB Russell Wilson need him to be? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Penguins' recent surge into Stanley Cup playoff positioning. Is the power play's recent success real? Or just a short burst of production? Can Michael Bunting and Philip Tomasino maintain their recent success? And how should GM Kyle Dubas react to these promising trends? Should he add to the roster before the NHL trade deadline with an eye toward a playoff berth? Or should he still plan to sell assets like Rickard Rakell, Marcus Pettersson and Erik Karlsson with the goal of helping Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang while they're still on the roster in 2025-26? Jason tackles those questions and more, then talks a little about the Pirates first base situation. Should GM Ben Cherington have considered bringing Josh Bell back before he signed an affordable deal with the Washington Nationals over the weekend? And how much pressure is Cherington under for the Spencer Horwitz trade to work out, given other 1B options that have been available? 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 Joel Haas preview the Fiesta Bowl against Boise State with a trip to the Orange Bowl and College Football Playoff semifinals on the line. Will Ashton Jeanty and the Broncos provide a tougher test than SMU did in Round 1? Or will Penn State's talent advantage yield a similar result? How much will the neutral site factor into the game after the Beaver Stadium crowd was a major factor against the Mustangs? And who will have the biggest performance if Penn State wins? Drew Allar? Nick Singleton? Kaytron Allen? Abdul Carter? Tyler Warren? Or someone else, like Dominic DeLuca, who had a pair of interceptions against SMU? Later our duo ponders the goings on in the rest of the playoff bracket and Penn State world. Should Penn State prefer to face Georgia or Notre Dame in the next round? Should it hope Oregon or Ohio State advances out of the Rose Bowl? Will Troy transfer Devonte Ross provide a boost to the receiving corps in 2025? And what's next for the women's volleyball program after Katie Schumacher-Cawley and Jess Mruzik led it to an eighth national title last weekend? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey offers 10 thoughts about the Steelers following their NFL Week 17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium. Are the Steelers getting enough value out of their expensive defense? Or do well-paid stars Minkah Fitzpatrick, Patrick Queen, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Alex Highsmith deserve scrutiny amid this three-game losing streak? Have hopes for the AFC North title completely evaporated? Or is there still a chance to beat the Ravens and escape a first-round road game against the Houston Texans? Do Russell Wilson, George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth have a turnover problem? Is DeShon Elliott's verbal frustration after the game a problem for coach Mike Tomlin's locker room? Is Arthur Smith making questionable calls, especially with Cordarrelle Patterson? And what's going on between RBs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren? 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to analyze Russell Wilson's future with the franchise. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin still look to bring him back despite the three-game losing streak to the Eagles, Ravens and Chiefs? Should Justin Fields get another look as a younger option with room to grow? Could the franchise look to the NFL draft for its next long-term option? And where does the relationship with George Pickens fit into the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions; considers the best possible playoff scenarios for this team, with a road game vs. Houston looking like the most likely first-round game; and they pick some games from NFL Week 17 with the Steelers sitting at home after their loss to the Chiefs on Christmas. 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 Christopher Carter break down the Panthers' 48-46 loss to Toledo in Thursday afternoon's GameAbove Sports Bowl, with Stephen reporting from Ford Field in Detroit. What led to the defeat for the Panthers? How did coach Pat Narduzzi and Kade Bell affect the outcome of the contest with some of their late-game coaching decisions and play calls? How did David Lynch perform in the place of the injured Eli Holstein? What made true freshman Julian Dugger so successful in his time on the field? Did Desmond Reid put a bow on his fantastic season? And where do the Panthers go from here? 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.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news around 5 p.m. Primarily, he reacts to the Steelers' NFL Week 17 loss to Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs. Can coach Mike Tomlin still win with this team in the playoffs? Are C.J. Stroud and the Texans an opponent they can beat if they have to travel to Houston for the wild-card round? What is going on in the secondary with DeShon Elliott, Patrick Queen and others venting frustration and Minkah Fitzpatrick struggling? Are T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and the pass rush part of the problem? Is George Pickens' body language and lazy route running sustainable any longer? Should we worry about Russell Wilson? And what buttons do coordinators Arthur Smith and Teryl Austin need to press to get this team back on track? 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, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the team's NFL Week 17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Who and what are this team's biggest problems right now? Are players like DeShon Elliott and Patrick Queen referred to guys like Minkah Fitzpatrick and Cam Sutton when expressing their grievances with the secondary's struggles publicly? Can Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin get their pass defense to sort out communication issues after Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce dissected them on Christmas? And what is going on with George Pickens after he showed his frustration with body language and failed to run out his routes in key moments? Our duo ponders those questions and more. Including: How much does this December losing streak have in common with last season's? Could personnel changes be coming, with Najee Harris getting swapped out for Jaylen Warren more? Can this team beat Houston, their likely playoff opponent right now? And what buttons can Tomlin, Austin and OC Arthur Smith push to turn things around? Especially with QB Russell Wilson and the passing game? 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 the Steelers' NFL Week 17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium. Can coach Mike Tomlin, OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin fix what's doomed their team in three consecutive losses? Why did Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce look so dominant against Minkah Fitzpatrick, DeShon Elliott, Donte Jackson and the Steelers' once-strong secondary? Can this team win in the playoffs -- likely against the Houston Texans -- now that they've lost control of their destiny in the AFC North race against the Ravens? And can Russell Wilson bounce back from arguably his worst performance with the team, even with WR George Pickens back in the lineup? 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 sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 17 matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium. Were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and coach Mike Tomlin's defense able to bounce back from a shaky performance against the Ravens? What difference did the return of George Pickens, DeShon Elliott, Donte Jackson and Larry Ogunjobi from injury make? Were Russell Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth and the passing game able to get back on track with Pickens in the lineup? And how did Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren look after some inconsistent weeks in the running game? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pitt insider Stephen Thompson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is joined by Toledo insider Kyle Rowland of The Toledo Blade to break down all things college football ahead of Thursday's Pitt-Toledo matchup in the GameAbove Sports Bowl at Ford Field in Detroit, MI. The guys discuss current injuries for both teams, look ahead to possible starting lineups, and provide their picks for the game. 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.