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

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey talks about the Steelers' current laundry list of injuries and the much-needed impact of George Pickens' return. He also discusses the importance of getting DeShon Elliott and Donte Jackson back in the lineup and how the running game will be key to defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Pittsburgh on Christmas Day, on Netflix, in Week 17. Jason also analyzes what Wednesday's game means for the Steelers' NFL playoff hopes and AFC North title chances. He wraps up the show by expressing his belief in what the Penguins are doing, as well as what the Pirates are telling us with signing Andrew McCutchen and no one else this week. 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 his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes former Steeler Derek Watt to preview a big week for his football family. How will T.J. Watt perform amid his injury in a crucial NFL Week 17 matchup on Christmas against Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs? Does he deserve the NFL's defensive player of the year (DPOY) award for his work in 2024? Is J.J. Watt ready for his big role on the first-ever Netflix broadcast of an NFL game? And what are Derek's thoughts on the Steelers' special teams excellence this season, including a monster season from Chris Boswell? 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 podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: What did Jeff Capel's men's basketball team do differently during this nonconference season that has the Panthers set up so well in the NET rankings? Will that help when it comes time to seek a bid to the NCAA tournament? What should fans expect from the matchup between Pitt and Toledo in the GameAbove Sports Bowl? What young players could we see in action that haven't gotten a chance yet? And should Damian Dunn slot back into the Panthers' starting lineup when he returns from injury or has Zack Austin earned the right to stay there? 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. Eastern. Should the Steelers considering bringing back Diontae Johnson to bolster their receiving corps, even with George Pickens returning from injury and Calvin Austin III showing promise? Is T.J. Watt healthy enough to make the big plays this defense needs in NFL Week 17 vs. the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs? And should we be concerned at all about Russell Wilson after his costly turnovers Saturday against the Ravens? Paul tackles those questions and more on the Steelers front. Then offers his thoughts on James Franklin, Penn State and the College Football Playoff first round this past weekend. Then wraps the show with reaction to Andrew McCutchen's return to the Pirates. 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 analyze the defense's many issues ahead of an NFL Week 17 matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs. Does this group need more splash plays from stars including T.J. Watt, Minah Fitzpatrick and Cam Heyward to regain elite status? What is happening with Patrick Queen and others in stopping the run? Might the return of Larry Ogunjobi this week help? And how can the pass defense blow fewer assignments amid injuries to DeShon Elliott, Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson? Our duo tackles those questions and more on that side of the ball, then talks offense. Has OC Arthur Smith's game plan been faulty in the past two losses against the Eagles and Ravens? How much did Russell Wilson's two critical turnovers this week overshadow an ability to move the ball? Can Smith get the ball to Pat Freiermuth more often? And what difference can the return of George Pickens make for this unit? Especially for the running game with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren? Later, Chris and Ray give their predictions for what might happen in this week's Christmas matchup with Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Co. at Acrisure Stadium. 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 Week 16 loss to the Ravens in Baltimore with 10 post-game thoughts. How encouraging Patrick Queen's message of accountability, and to what degree is he emerging as a leader on this defense? Why was Russell Wilson's QB play encouraging despite his pair of costly turnovers? Has the Ravens' Lamar Jackson started to figure out coach Mike Tomlin's defense? How worried should we be about the banged-up secondary amid a key injury to Joey Porter Jr.? Why did Jaylen Warren out-touch Najee Harris in the running game? Where was tight end Pat Freiermuth in the passing game? And how far from 100% is T.J. Watt right now? Jason 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 Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's South Side facility ahead of their NFL Week 17 matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day. Could some key players including George Pickens, DeShon Elliott, Donte Jackson, Justin Fields and Larry Ogunjobi return from injury? What's the status of newly injured names like Joey Porter Jr. and Ben Skowronek? How can OC Arthur Smith and QB Russell Wilson get TE Pat Freiermuth more involved in the offense after a quiet outing against the Ravens on Saturday? And how can Mike Tomlin get more out of his defense after Patrick Queen, Minkah Fitzpatrick and others struggled to contain Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and RB Derrick Henry? 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 and Ray Fittipaldo react to a costly NFL Week 16 loss to the Ravens in Baltimore. Can coach Mike Tomlin fix his struggling defense amid injuries to T.J. Watt, Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott, Larry Ogunjobi and Donte Jackson? Is the defensive line a problem with names including Dean Lowry and Isaiahh Loudermilk not producing? How much blame does QB Russell WIlson deserve for a pair of turnovers that sidetracked an otherwise productive day from Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and Calvin Austin III within OC Arthur Smith's offense? When might George Pickens return from injury? And where does this loss leave the Steelers in the AFC North race with a tough matchup against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs looming 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 sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 16 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Did Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and the running game bounce back after a tough outing against the Eagles? How did Russell Wilson, Mike Williams, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III and the passing game perform without the injured George Pickens? What kind of a factor was T.J. Watt defensively after the injury he battled over the past week? And how well did teammates including Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Patrick Queen execute in slowing down Ravens stars including Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and Zay Flowers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Penn State insiders Joel Haas and Lyle Alenstein react to Penn State's dominant College Football Playoff victory on Saturday at Beaver Stadium. How far can James Franklin and Drew Allar take the Nittany Lions after finally earning a signature win? Will this victory silence their critics? Or is a Fiesta Bowl win against Boise State in the next round essential to that narrative as well? Can any defense in the playoffs stop running backs Katron Allen and Nick Singleton after their huge days? How much praise do OC Andy Kotelnicki and DC Tom Allen deserve? And have Abdul Carter, Tony Rojas and Dominic DeLuca helped the defense find its stride after forcing numerous turnovers against SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings? 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 Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Steelers insider Brian Batko look ahead to another massive game on Saturday as the Pittsburgh Steelers visit the Baltimore Ravens for an AFC North rivalry rematch. How can the Steelers survive their current injuries to upset the Ravens and win the division crown? Also, what must Mike Tomlin and the Steelers defense do to keep Saturday afternoon's contest low-scoring enough so that they can eke out a win? The guys tackle those Week 16 questions and more, then dish out their picks and predictions from around the league. 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 Friday episode of First 10, Jason Mackey breaks down how a win on Saturday would give the Pittsburgh Steelers their biggest all season and maybe around the entire NFL so far this season. He also discusses how he doesn't like where Mike Tomlin and company currently stand with injuries as the postseason rapidly approaches. Jason also looks at last night's volleyball matches with Pitt-Louisville and Penn State-Nebraska and later talks about what a Sidney Crosby NHL heater could mean for the Penguins. 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 Thursday episode of First 10, Jason Mackey looks ahead to the Steelers' chance to clinch the AFC North against the Ravens on Saturday. How can Russell Wilson and Arthur Smith shake off their slow starts and jump out to a lead? Plus, some thoughts on Pitt volleyball's Final Four showdown and a new take on Pirates acquisition Spencer Horwitz. 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 Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's practice facility ahead of a crucial NFL Week 16 matchup with the AFC North rival Baltimore Ravens. How can OC Arthur Smith get Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and the running game back on track after an ugly performance last week against the Philadelphia Eagles? Can he get more out of young offensive lineman such as Zach Frazier, Broderick Jones and Mason McCormick? Or does he need to switch up his play calling at tactics? Where does George Pickens' injury situation stand, and what impact could that have on QB Russell Wilson and the passing game? Then on the defensive side of the ball, how important is T.J. Watt's availability to helping DC Teryl Austin stop Ravens QB Lamar Jackson? Can the unit survive with Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig as the lead pass rushers? 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 around 5 p.m. Is the Steelers' compressed schedule that forces them to face the Eagles, Ravens and Chiefs in an 11-day span fair? Or does the NFL need to reconsider stretches like this moving forward? How does Patrick Mahomes' ankle injury factor into expectations for coach Mike Tomlin, QB Russell Wilson and RB Najee Harris vs. the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs? And how big of a boost will it be if T.J. Watt is able to play vs. Lamar Jackson and the Ravens this week? Paul tackles those topics, gives final thoughts on Penn State's College Football Playoff matchup vs. SMU and ponders what an NCAA women's volleyball national title could mean for Pitt. 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 welcomes Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Joel Haas to preview the College Football Playoff first-round matchup with SMU on Saturday at Beaver Stadium. Is this Drew Allar's big chance to show a big audience what he can do in a do-or-die moment? Have he and coach James Franklin been slept on because casual fans only see them fail in big games? Was Allar's announced return in 2025 a surprise? Or a smart move for his NFL draft stock? And how will the rest of the quarterback room fill out behind him, with Ethan Grunkemeyer and Jaxon Smolik vying to replace transfer Beau Pribula as the No. 2 guy? Our duo tackles those questions and more, including: How much can transfer portal addition Kyron Hudson help the weak wide receiver corps next season? Could former USC Trojans teammates Zachariah and Zion Branch join him in Happpy Valley? Could Penn State see other key players like Abdul Carter, Kaytron Allen or Nick Singleton return next season? How does the PSU defense match up with SMU stars like QB Kevin Jennings, RB Brashard Smith and WRs Roderick Daniels Jr. and Key'Shawn Smith? Does the men's basketball team have March Madness potential after receiving AP poll votes this week? And what are the women's volleyball tam's chances to stop rival Pitt from winning a national title this week? 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 defense. What led to the third-down issues last week against the Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, Devonta Smith and the Eagles? Can they be fixed ahead of a pivotal AFC North showdown with Lamar Jackson and the Ravens in NFL Week 16? And is the secondary a specific area of concern, with Dontae Jackson injured and players like Joey Porter Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick giving up a lot of yardage through the air? Our duo tackles those topics and more, including: Officiating issues that have angered Steelers players including George Pickens; injury updates on players including Pickens, Jackson, T.J. Watt, DeShon Elliott and Larry Ogunjobi; and the defense's readiness to play without Watt with names such as Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. 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. Specifically, he responds to George Pickens' claim that NFL officials have a "vendetta" against the Steelers after a few controversial calls the last few weeks in games against the Bengals, Browns and Eagles. He also ponders the state of the Steelers defense as it prepares to face Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and the Ravens, possibly without T.J. Watt. And he assesses the offense's chances to bounce back after Russell Wison, Najee Harris, Pat Freiermuth and Co. struggled to score points amid Pickens' absence in Philadelphia. 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 Giana Han of the Baltimore Banner to preview the NFL Week 16 clash with the Ravens. Can the defense slow down Lamar Jackson again, coming off one of his best performances of the season? Especially with the status of T.J. Watt and DeShon Elliott up in the air? Who else is trending up for the Ravens? Has kicker Justin Tucker sorted out any of his struggles since missing a pair of kicks against the Steelers in November? How have Roquan Smith, Kyle Hamilton and Marlon Humphrey gotten this Baltimore defense back on track? And will that make life difficult on Russell Wilson, Najee Harris and Pat Freiermuth, especially if George Pickens misses another game? And what's going on with former Steelers receiver Diontae Johnson, who's been suspended the past couple of weeks after refusing to enter a game against the Eagles? 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 analyzes the impact of defenseman Marcus Pettersson's injury on the Penguins' recent 6-2-1 hot streak. Is that success sustainable without him? Can Owen Pickering hack it on the top defensive pairing with Kris Letang? What does Pettersson's absence mean for Erik Karlsson, who's now skating with the struggling Matt Grzelcyk? And how does the injury complicate decisions for GM Kyle Dubas as he looks to bolster the roster around Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin for coach Mike Sullivan? Jason tackles those topics; reacts to the Pirates' promotion of Miguel Perez within their pitching development regime; and ponders the Steelers' chances in NFL Week 16 against the AFC North rival Ravens amid injuries to T.J. Watt and George Pickens. 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 football mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: Is RB Desmond Reid's return a good sign for coach Pat Narduzzi and OC Kade Bell as NCAA transfer portal season gets into full swing? Will others including Eli Holstein and Kyle Louis stay put as well? And what are the guys' picks for the College Football Playoff this weekend? Our duo tackles those topics and more on the basketball front. Should coach Jeff Capel give Brandin Cummings a spot in the starting lineup? And how much longer will he allow Guillermo Diaz Graham to struggle? 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., with a specific focus on the Steelers' NFL Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Is QB Russell Wilson taking too much of the blame? Why do some fans still want to see Justin Fields? How can OC Arthur Smith get more out of targets including Calvin Austin III, Mike Williams, Pat Freiermuth and Van Jefferson? How much blame do GM Omar Khan and GM Mike Tomlin deserve for not giving him more? What went wrong for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren in the running game? And are Joey Porter Jr., Minkah Fitzpatrick and the secondary in trouble? Especially with T.J. Watt injured? If you haven’t already, subscribe to the sports department’s YouTube channel so you don’t miss a video with our reporters, columnists and their special guests. 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, Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers' disheartening loss to the Eagles on Sunday night. Why has the offense fallen apart since George Pickens got hurt? Why can't the defense make a stop, and will T.J. Watt's ankle injury derail things further? And with a playoff spot clinched, what does a postseason forecast look like for this team? 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 Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Was OC Arthur Smith's game plan too vanilla for key pieces including Russell Wilson, Pat Freiermuth and Najee Harris to get results amid the injury to George Pickens? What will T.J. Watt's injury mean for the defense with key games against the Ravens and Chiefs looming? When will receivers including Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson and Mike Williams step up? How much blame does coach Mike Tomlin deserve for clock management gaffes? And how did Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr. and the defense manage to keep Saquon Barkley in check while getting dominated by other playmakers including Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and Devonta 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 Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers' NFL Week 15 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Why couldn't QB Russell Wilson, TE Pat Freiermuth and the offense take advantage of a pair of early fumbles by their opponent? How much blame do Najee Harris, Calvin Austin III and Darnell Washington deserve for fumbling and drawing costly flags, respectively? And where does the receiver group go from here after an ugly day amid George Pickens' injury? Our duo tackles those questions and also ponders an ugly defensive performance. Why did Joey Porter Jr., Minkah Fitzpatrick and the secondary struggle so badly to contain QB Jalen Hurts and receivers A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith? What did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Co. do well to slow Eagles star Saquon Barkley? And what's the latest on injuries sustained by Watt and CB Donte Jackson? 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 15 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. How well did T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Cam Heyward, Joey Porter Jr. and coach Mike Tomlin's defense contain Eagles playmakers Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley? How did Russell Wilson and the passing game look amid the injury to receiver George Pickens? Were Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren able to maintain momentum in the running game? And where does this game leave the Steelers in the battle for the AFC's No. 1 seed with the Chiefs and Bills? 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 Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Steelers insider Brian Batko look ahead to Sunday's massive game against the Eagles. Which will win out: Russell Wilson's winning streak in Philadelphia, or the Steelers' losing streak there? Plus our picks from around the 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 Friday episode of First 10, Jason Mackey looks at Sunday's huge Steelers game against the Eagles. Why is a win in Philadelphia so important? Can the Steelers shut down Saquon Barkley? Can Russell Wilson win the game without George Pickens? Plus, thoughts on the Pirates' inactivity at the winter meetings and Pitt volleyball's insane game against Oregon. 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. Should defensive lineman Cam Heyward be getting NFL defensive player of the year buzz? Or has that award simply been taken over by edge rushers like T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett and Nick Bosa? Are the Steelers capable of knocking the Eagles' Saquon Barkley off his record pace in their NFL Week 15 matchup? And what can we expect from Bill Belichick in the college ranks now that he's taken the North Carolina Tar Heels job? Paul tackles those topics and more, including: What will the return of Rich Rodriguez mean for West Virginia football? And could the Pirates really trade Mitch Keller or Jared Jones as the MLB hot stove heats up following the Spencer Horwitz deal? 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 insider Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko report from the team's Thursday practice ahead of an NFL Week 15 matchup with the red-hot Philadelphia Eagles. Which coordinator is under more pressure this week? Is it Arthur Smith, gameplanning for QB Russell Wilson, RB Najee Harris, TE Pat Freiermuth and the offense to face a tough Eagles defense led by Jalen Carter and Quinyon Mitchell? Or is it DC Teryl Austin as he prepares guys including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Joey Porter Jr. to face Eagles playmakers Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, Devonta Smith and Saquon Barkley, who's having a historic season? They also ponder assistant GM Andy Weidl's offense on both teams. When will the young Steelers offensive line with Mason McCormick, Broderick Jones and Zach Frazier begin to resemble the group that the Eagles have, led by Lane Johnson? 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 ponders what's next for the Pirates in MLB free agency and the trade market after their deal with the Cleveland Guardians for 1B Spencer Horwitz this week. How GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton address their weakness in right field? Could they trade starters Mitch Keller and/or Jared Jones to bolster their offensive depth? What's next for David Bednar after losing the closer role late last season? And who will replace Luis Ortiz in the rotation? Jason tackles those questions and more. Then previews Pitt volleyball's NCAA tournament matchup with Oregon and the Steelers' NFL Week 15 showdown with Saquon Barkley and the Philadelphia Eagles. 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. Specifically, he wonders whether the Steelers will re-sign George Pickens this offseason if QB Russell Wilson and the passing game prove they can succeed with names like Pat Freiermuth, Mike Williams, Darnell Washington, Scotty Miller, Calvin Austin III and Van Jefferson amid Pickens' injury. Will Pickens be worth the headaches he causes? Or could coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan look to the NFL draft for a replacement after next season? Later, Paul gives his thoughts on the Pirates' trade with the Cleveland Guardians for 1B Spencer Horwitz at the MLB Winter Meetings. Will Horwitz make them better at 1B? Should fans have been hoping for a more proven option? Will the rotation miss Luis Ortiz? And what should be the next orders of business in MLB free agency and the trade market? 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 reacts to the Pirates' trade for 1B Spencer Horwitz. Is GM Ben Cherington thinking too small in addressing the position with a player who still has many question marks? Did he give up too much in sending Luis Ortiz and two pitching prospects to the Cleveland Guardians in the deal? And does this deal send an ominous message about what's to come for this team in MLB free agency and the trade market as the Winter Meetings continue? Jason tackles those questions, then ponders what the George Pickens injury could mean for coach Mike Tomlin, QB Russell Wilson and the Steelers in an NFL Week 15 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. He also gives his thoughts on possible discord between Eagles QB Jalen Hurts and WR A.J. Brown. 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 news that WR George Pickens may miss more time than expected. How can QB Russell Wilson and OC Arthur Smith compensate for the injury? Will we continue to see more of depth receivers including Mike Williams, Scotty Miller, Van Jefferson and Calvin Austin III? And could the Justin Fields package make another appearance starting with the Week 15 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: Does Pro Football Focus value the wrong things when grading Minkah Fitzpatrick, especially in comparison to DeShon Elliott? And what should we make of the Eagles right now? From Saquon Barkley's brilliance to the purported feuding between Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin react to the first big move of the winter meetings, with first baseman Spencer Horowitz coming to Pittsburgh in exchange for pitcher Luis Ortiz and others. Why did Ben Cherington target Horwitz as the answer at first base, and was he worth trading three pitchers? Plus, what other moves could come out of Dallas? 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, with a specific focus on the Steelers' NFL Week 15 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. Is coach Mike Tomlin's team catching the cross-state rival at the right time amid perceived turmoil between star WR A.J. Brown and QB Jalen Hurts? Are the Eagles' struggles passing something T.J. Wat, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and the defense can take advantage of? And how will Russell Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Mike Williams, Calvin Austin III and the Steelers' passing game manage against a good Eagles secondary without George Pickens? Paul gives his thoughts on those topics, then reacts to Juan Soto's mega deal with the New York Mets and what it might mean for the Pirates, who've been quiet so far in MLB free agency. 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 weekly news conference ahead of an NFL Week 15 showdown with the in-state rival Philadelphia Eagles. Is it possible receiver George Pickens will miss not just this game, but crucial matchups with the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs that follow? How will OC Arthur Smith adjust the passing game for QB Russell Wilson and top remaining targets including Pat Freiermuth, Mike Williams, Calvin Austin III, Darnell Washington and Van Jefferson? What can we expect from Larry Ogunjobi and DeShon Elliott this week amid their injuries? And how would their possible absence affect the defense's ability to stop Eagles stars Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley? 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 football podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them. Are transfers including Nate Yarnell, Nahki Johnson and Daejon Reynolds major losses for the program? Does coach Pat Narduzzi need to take more accountability for the state of his offensive line? Is there any upside to facing Toledo in the GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit? What's going on with backup QBs David Lynch and Ty Dieffenbach? And were Jeff Capel, Jaland Lowe, Ishmael Leggett and the men's basketball team unfairly dropped from the AP top 25 poll this week? 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 14 victory against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Does coach Mike Tomlin have this team rounding into his most complete in years, with Russell Wilson helping lift the offense into the top 10 in the NFL while the defense continues to dominate? How did OC Arthur Smith's unit manage without WR George Pickens, turning to names like Najee Harris and Pat Freiermuth instead? And what does it mean in the race for the AFC championship with key games looming against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, plus Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: What makes T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and the defense so good at situaitonal football? And what are the playoff clinching scenarios this week as the Steelers prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles? 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 Week 14 victory against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Specifically, he explains why coach Mike Tomlin's get-right instead of get-even message ahead of the battle with the AFC North rival was the right one as critical matchups with the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs loom over the last month of the regular season. And why Russell Wilson is the perfect QB to help maintain that even keel amid the injury to key receiver George Pickens. Later, Jason offers thoughts on former Pirates star Dave Parker and Wampum, Pa., native Dick Allen getting elected to the baseball Hall of Fame. 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 the team's NFL Week 14 victory against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. How did Russell Wilson, Najee Harris, Pat Freiermuth and the offense look with WR George Pickens out of action. What will his likely absence next week against the Philadelphia Eagles mean for OC Arthur Smith's unit? Can names like Mike Williams, Scotty Miller and Ben Skowronek continue to step up with depth contributions? And how should we assess T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Cam Heyward and the defense? 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 14 matchup with the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. How did Russell Wilson, Najee Harris, Pat Freiermuth and OC Arthur Smith handle the absence of George Pickens offensively? Did Broderick Jones, Dan Moore Jr. and the offensive line do a better job against Browns standout Myles Garrett than they did in Week 12? And what were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and the defense able to do against dynamic Browns duo Jameis Winston and Jerry Jeudy? 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 Joel Haas and Lyle Alenstein break down Penn State's loss to Oregon in the Big Ten championship game on Saturday night. Did the Nittany Lions defense let down Drew Allar, Tyler Warren and an explosive offense? Is this another example of James Franklin struggling to win the big games? And what does the College Football Playoff forecast look like after this one? 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' 64-59 win over Virginia Tech on Saturday afternoon, with Stephen reporting from Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg, Va. How were the Panthers able to get a win in a place they hadn't won in since 2003? How did Jaland Lowe lead the Panthers with his scoring down the stretch? What defensive adjustments did coach Jeff Capel make that led to tighter second-half defense? And what does the team's resilient comeback say about it as it moves forward without starting guard Damian Dunn? 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 Pirates insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin preview the 2025 MLB winter meetings, set to take place Monday through Thursday in Dallas. What can fans expect from Ben Cherington's pursuit of free agents? Which players should they target, and which players will they target? Will there be a noticeable increase in Bob Nutting's payroll, or will it stay around status quo? Will the Pirates do more shuffling in their front office? Will the team undergo anymore coaching changes or hires? And what will all of this mean for the 2025 squad's playoff chances? 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. EST. Can Steelers WR George Pickens control himself on Sunday against Browns CB Greg Newsome following the recent trash talk between the two players? What can Pittsburgh's defense do to slow down the red-hot Jameis Winston compared to their upset loss two weeks ago? Paul dives into all things Steelers-Browns and the NFL Week 14 slate, then pivots to breaking down college football championship weekend. Can James Franklin, Drew Allar and Penn State finally pull off a big upset when they face No. 1-ranked Oregon in the Big Ten title? And what will Saturday night's result mean for the Nittany Lions' seeding on Selection Sunday for the College Football Playoff? 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 an AFC North rematch between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns in Week 14 on Sunday afternoon at Acrisure Stadium. The guys discuss whether Steelers OC Arthur Smith is doing a good enough job this season to get hired away ahead of 2025 and look at key factors Pittsburgh will need to beat Cleveland after dropping a 24-19 decision to Jameis Winston & company two weeks ago. They also break down their favorite picks for Sunday's football slate and give out their official predictions for Steelers vs. Browns. 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 Friday mailbag edition of his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey gives his official predictions and breaks down all things Penn State-Oregon ahead of Saturday's Big Ten championship game, as well as the Steelers-Browns on Sunday afternoon. Jason gives his predictions on both games and also looks ahead to the NFL offseason to examine which positions the Steelers should target in the draft and where the Penguins could also add some help this season. He wraps up the podcast with some Pirates talk by looking at who takes over as the team's closer if David Bednar struggles and what a potential Bryan Reynolds move to first base could mean for Pittsburgh's offseason spending plans. 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 sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news around 5 p.m. How do the AFC North's coaches stack up with the division now in the HBO "Hard Knocks" spotlight? Is the Steelers' Mike Tomlin really the best as his team sits atop the division standings? Or should Ravens' John Harbaugh, Bengals' Zac Taylor get credit for more recent NFL Playoffs success? Later, Paul looks ahead to the Week 14 matchup with the Cleveland Browns and weighs conflicting reports about the future of Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh, now that he has the offense rolling with playmakers including George Pickens, Najee Harris and Pat Freiermuth alongside him. He also gives his thoughts on College Football Playoff rankings drama involving the SEC's Alabama Crimson Tide, and Ole Miss Rebels, plus the ACC's Miami Hurricanes. 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 ponders the futures of Russell Wilson, George Pickens and Najee Harris with the Steelers amid the offense's success this season under OC Arthur Smith. Can GM Omar Khan keep the group together with their contracts expiring this year or next? Is Wilson the most valuable of the three, despite being by far the oldest at 33 years old? And how should Pickens' emotional flare ups affect his stock with coach Mike Tomlin and his staff? Jason tackles those topics, wonders when we might see receiver Mike Williams more on offense, then explains his relationships with former Penguins greats Matt Cullen and Kevin Stevens. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.