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

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Christopher Carter and Steelers insider Brian Batko look at the intriguing ways the team can use Justin Fields, even as Russell Wilson has taken over the starting job. Plus, how realistic are the latest trade rumors involving Cooper Kupp, and our Pick Six games of the weekend. 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 reflects on Pitt's dominating win over Syracuse. Can we start to dream big when it comes to the College Football Playoff and the Panthers? Plus, thoughts on the awkward situation between the Penguins and Tristan Jarry and reader questions of the week. 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 editor and fantasy football analyst Chris Dell breaks down his favorite players to start and sit at every position ahead of Week 8 using his top 150 rankings cheat sheet and positional tiers. Host Dalton Brown runs through the players that Chris is higher and lower on vs. the FantasyPros Expert Consensus Rankings (ECR) and looks at top trade targets, sleepers and stashes heading into the weekend. Chris is the founder of Bet­tingPred­a­tors.com and the for­mer fan­tasy foot­ball and sports bet­ting lead an­a­lyst for ESPN 97.5. He re­cently won first place out of 235 an­a­lysts in the Fan­ta­syPros’ 2023 Fan­tasy Foot­ball NFL Draft Ac­cu­racy rank­ings com­pe­ti­tion. He's also currently top 10 out of 200+ analysts in the FantasyPros' 2024 in-season NFL accuracy rankings. For more fantasy football content, including Chris' top 150 weekly rankings and his '30 for 30' strategy series, visit post-gazette.com/sports/fantasy-football. 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' 41-13 win over Syracuse on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. What led to the defense's huge night, with five interceptions of Syracuse QB Kyle McCord and three pick-sixes? How has the defense found its footing to be able to carry Pitt to wins over Syracuse and Cal? Are the Panthers legit College Football Playoff contenders? How can the offense get back on track? And should there be any injury concerns with Eli Holstein? 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 live to the day in Pittsburgh sports news. Are Mike Tomlin's Steelers in a must-win spot against the lowly Giants in NFL Week 8 considering how tough their remaining schedule is? What does Russell Wilson still have to prove in replacing Justin Fields? What's the latest on the trade front as GM Omar Khan ponders deals for WRs including the Los Angeles Rams' Cooper Kupp and the New York Jets' Mike Williams? And how important is Pitt's Thursday night game against Syracuse for College Football Playoff hopes? 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 No. 19 Pitt's Thursday night matchup with Syracuse at Acrisure Stadium. Can coach Pat Narduzzi's team win its sixth-straight Thursday night game? Can QB Eli Holstein get OC Kade Bell's offense back on track after a rugged victory against California? And elsewhere on the Pitt front, what did we learn from new AD Allen Greene's introduction this week? Jason tackles those questions; highlights the Pitt and Pittsburgh ties of Curt Cignetti, Mike Shanahan and Tino Sunseri amid their success at Indiana; and evaluates the contributions of Steelers rookies including Zach Frazier, Payton Wilson and Beanie Bishop. 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. What should the Steelers do at wide receiver with trade targets including Cooper Kupp and Mike WIlliams reportedly available? What's his read on the future of the QB debate between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields after Wilson's big NFL Week 7 effort against the New York Jets? And what can we expect this week against the New York Giants? Then on other fronts, Paul reacts to the Penguins' struggles following their latest loss to the Calgary Flames; looks ahead to Pitt's big game against Syracuse; and possibly talks a little Nittany Lions with Penn State traveling for a significant game this weekend against Wisconsin. 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 insider Joel Haas preview an important game for the Nittany Lions against Wisconsin. Could this be a trap game for coach James Franklin's squad following an emotional win at USC and ahead of crucial home matchups with Ohio State and Washington? And what challenge does the Badgers run game, led by Tawee Walker, pose after the Trojans' Woody Marks had a big day against Penn State a couple of weeks ago? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders big questions for the second half of the season. What will happen to QB Drew Allar and the offense if defenses start to try to take star TE Tyler Warren away? Are running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen or receivers Julian Fleming, Trey Wallace, Omari Evans and Liam Clifford ready to step up? Will Penn State see star safety K.J. Winston again this season amid his injury? And why are names including Cooper Cousins, Jalen Kimber and A.J. Harris among those to watch as breakout candidates over the final six games? 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' shootout loss to the Calgary Flames on Tuesday night. Why can't coach Mike Sullivan's team hold a lead? Is his message not getting through defensively? And how does the volume of high-danger scoring chances allowed impact the goalie conversation about Tristan Jarry, Alex Nedeljkovic and Joel Blomqvist? Jason tackles those topics, looks ahead to the Steelers' NFL Week 8 matchup with the New York Giants and wonders whether there are too many transfers in Pitt's important Thursday night matchup with Syracuse at Acrisure Stadium, from the Panthers' Eli Holstein, Desmond Reid and Konata Mumpfield to the Orange's Kyle McCord. 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 welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the receiver options available to GM Omar Khan ahead of the NFL trade deadline. Is Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams a legit possibility amid reports that he'll be available? Or will he be another big name who goes elsewhere like Brandon Aiyuk and Davante Adams? Does the New York Jets' Mike Williams still belong in the conversation? What about the Broncos' Courtland Sutton? The Seahawks' D.K. Metcalf? Or the Giants' Darius Slayton? And how does the change from Justin Fields to Russell Wilson affect that conversation, following another quiet night for names including Calvin Austin III and Van Jefferson behind George Pickens in Week 7 against the Jets? Our duo tackles those questions, reacts to some of the criticism of Wilson's debut nationally and takes stock of Najee Harris and Joey Porter Jr. after praise from coach Mike Tomlin in his weekly news conference Tuesday. 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: Are coach Pat Narduzzi and the Panthers at any risk of losing QB Eli Holstein to the transfer portal at the end of this season? Or can they keep richer programs like Alabama or Georgia away? Is Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord a threat to the Pitt defense in the teams' critical matchup Thursday night at Acrisure Stadium? And on the basketball front, what's a reasonable record prediction for coach Jeff Capel's squad? 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 Sumer Sports podcast host Lindsay Rhoades, formerly of NFL Network, to react to the team's NFL Week 7 victory against the New York Jets. Why do reasons for skepticism remain with Russell Wilson at QB, despite his strong Steelers debut? Has coach Mike Tomlin's decision to start Wilson really been vindicated after just one game? Or is there still room to debate the merits of starting Justin Fields? And what did OC Arthur Smith do well to put Wilson in a position to succeed? Our duo tackles those questions and more, including: How good can Najee Harris be the rest of the season after back-to-back 100-yard games? And what should expectations be for the Monday Night Football matchup with the New York Giants in NFL Week 8? 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' 5-2 start to the season. Is the success from Mike Tomlin's team so far sustainable, especially with Russell Wilson at QB over Justin Fields? And Najee Harris thriving in the running game? Or could this be another mirage akin to the 2020 season, when Ben Roethlisberger and Co. started 11-0 before sputtering down the stretch? How do they stack up with the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North division race or the Kansas City Chiefs in the battle for the conference crown? And why does OC Arthur Smith deserve credit for getting Wilson on track with his play calling in NFL Week 7 against the New York Jets? Jason tackles those questions, plus the need for the Penguins to play better defense in the coming weeks after a leaky start in their own end. 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 break down an NFL Week 7 victory against the New York Jets at Acrisure Stadium. Does QB Russell Wilson's impressive night passing the ball -- primarily to George Pickens -- make the team a serious contender in the AFC with the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills and others? How much credit does coach Mike Tomlin deserve for making the move to Wilson despite Justin Fields' 4-2 start? And what was Wilson able to do different than Fields in OC Arthur Smith's offense? Our duo tackles those questions and also reacts to a strong performance by the defense that included two interceptions from CB Beanie Bishop and a busy night for the pass rush with T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Then later, the guys tackle the question of how balanced this team can be now that the offense appears to have found some chemistry. 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 First 10, Jason Mackey takes another look at the Steelers' win over the Jets on Sunday night. Did Mike Tomlin silence the doubters after Russell Wilson's big performance? Is he the answer to the George Pickens problem moving forward? And how long will we see the rejuvenated version of Najee Harris? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to an NFL Week 7 victory against the New York Jets on Sunday night at Acrisure Stadium. What made Russell Wilson so effective at QB, as he produced a season-high 37 points in replacing Justin Fields behind center? How much momentum does RB Najee Harris now have in OC Arthur Smith's offense after a 100-yard night? How good can Beanie Bishop be at slot corner after picking off a pair of passes against Jets QB Aaron Rodgers to change the complexion of the game? And what would a win next week against the New York Giants do for this team's chances in the AFC North division race? 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 writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 7 matchup with the New York Jets at Acrisure Stadium. How did Russell Wilson perform in seizing the starting QB role from Justin Fields? How did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick and the defense contain Jets stars Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams? Did Najee Harris maintain his momentum from the win against the Raiders last week? And where does this game leave coach Mike Tomlin's squad in the AFC North division race vs. the Bengals, Ravens and Bowns? 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 is joined by Steelers insider Brian Batko to provide their analysis of all the NFL storylines surrounding Sunday night's game against the New York Jets and around the league. Who benefits the most from Russell Wilson being the Steelers' starting QB over Justin Fields? Will George Pickens finally have his breakout game with a more traditional pocket pass under center? Also, who will be the X-factors on "Sunday Night Football," and can Najee Harris replicate his rushing dominance from last week's blowout victory over the Las Vegas Raiders? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Later in the show, the guys also make their Week 7 predictions 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 edition of First 10, Jason Mackey looks at the Steelers' upcoming matchup with the Jets after an expected quarterback change to Russell Wilson. Did Justin Fields earn some major points with the front office with the way he's handled the move? And what should we expect to see out of Wilson? Plus, Jason takes reader questions to head into the weekend. 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 insider Joel Haas is joined by the Daily Collegian's Lyle Alenstein to talk all things Penn State football heading into the Nittany Lions' second and final bye week of the college season. Joel and Lyle break down PSU's second-half schedule and discuss what the team needs to do in order to beat both Wisconsin and Ohio State in Big Ten play. The guys also look back and evaluate the first half of the season and what James Franklin, Drew Allar and company need to work on before next Saturday night's conference road tilt against the Badgers. Has Penn State lived up to expectations so far despite their undefeated record and No. 3 national ranking? And what do the Nittany Lions need to do to defeat No. 4-ranked Ohio State in two weeks? Our duo tackles those topics and more. 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 Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from Thursday practice and ahead of the team's NFL Week 7 "Sunday Night Football" home matchup with the New York Jets at Acrisure Stadium. Brian and Ray dive deep into the nuances of the Steelers' ongoing starting QB controversy between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson and discuss when they expect Mike Tomlin to announce his decision. The guys also discuss whether Arthur Smith actually has a say in the team's starting QB job and whether he prefers to keep Fields under center based on his comments to the media throughout the past week. Our duo tackles those topics and more. 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.

In his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins Steelers insider Brian Batko to break down the team's ongoing starting quarterback controversy between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, as well as the team's upcoming "Sunday Night Football" game against the New York Jets in Week 7. Paul and Brian talk about why Mike Tomlin is so coy about announcing his starting QB despite all indications pointing to Wilson getting his first start of the 2024 NFL season. The guys also debate whether this in-season move will hurt Fields' confidence moving forward. They also touch on the beginning of the 2024 NHL season for the Pittsburgh Penguins and debate whether the verdict is out already on Tristan Jarry as a starting goalie. 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 talks about a historic night of Penguins hockey in which Evgeni Malkin scored his 500th goal and now leads the NHL in points. What has led to Malkin's incredible start? And are we fully appreciating what Malkin, Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang have brought to Pittsburgh? Plus, what will the Penguins do with Tristan Jarry as his struggles reached a new low against the Sabres? 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 and insider Ray Fittipaldo break down the big question for the Steelers' quarterback job: Can Russell Wilson do more with the offense than Justin Fields? Plus, why didn't Omar Khan get Davante Adams or Amari Cooper? And the latest on the injuries to key players such as Zach Frazier and Alex Highsmith. 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 First 10, Jason Mackey takes a look at the resurgent Penguins coming off a successful road trip. How has Evgeni Malkin changes his game this season, and why is it working? And did you know the Penguins are about to make NHL history? Plus, thoughts on the Steelers' QB situation and the dwindling options at wide receiver after the Davante Adams and Amari Cooper trades. 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 and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Henry McKenna of FOX Sports to discuss a variety of topics from around the NFL. Among them: What should we make of the Jets and Raiders swinging a trade for Davante Adams, a player whom the Steelers were interested in acquiring? What should the Steelers be prepared for when they face the Jets on Sunday Night Football? Who should start for the Steelers at quarterback — Justin Fields or Russell Wilson? And what is going on in Cleveland? Why are the Browns and Deshaun Watson such a disaster right now? 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 report from the team's Tuesday practice and coach Mike Tomlin's news conference ahead of an NFL Week 7 matchup with the New York Jets. What's next for the Steelers at the quarterback position after Tomlin was cryptic in his messaging at his presser? Will Russell Wilson make his first start of the season now that he's fully recovered from his injury? Or will Justin Fields, who has led the Steelers to a 4-2 start so far, keep his starting gig? And if Wilson does start, could offensive coordinator Arthur Smith have Fields run the football in certain sub-packages? 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 this week's Pitt mailbag, Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson take a look at a realistic path to the College Football Playoff and if the Panthers will be annual contenders. Plus, was Pitt's defense against Cal repeatable? And should Jeff Capel's basketball team be ranked in the top 25? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Tuesday's episode of First 10, Jason Mackey looks at the 6-0 starts for the Pitt Panthers and Penn State Nittany Lions. Could Pat Narduzzi and James Franklin meet in a College Football Playoff game? Plus, Penn State TE Tyler Warren just might be the most fun player in all of college football, and Pennsylvania suddenly has the best kickers in the country. 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 an NFL Week 6 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Did Justin Fields do enough to keep the Steelers' starting QB job over Russell Wilson after he threw for just 145 yards and ran for two touchdowns? Is Najee Harris' first 100+ yard rushing performance of the season a sign of things to come or a mirage? And is Pittsburgh's defense officially back on track after holding the Raiders to just 57 rushing yards on Sunday? Our duo tackles those questions and more in later segments, including whether the season-ending leg injury to Detroit's Aidan Hutchinson means that T.J. Watt is now in the driver's seat for the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year award. 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 Monday's episode of First 10, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey breaks down the Steelers' dominant 32-13 road victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 6. How much can Steelers fans actually learn about how good this team is after playing such a poor opponent? What are Mackey's biggest takeaways from Week 6, and who does he think should be Pittsburgh's starting QB moving forward between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson? He also touches on Najee Harris' inspiring 100+ yard performance on the ground and shares his thoughts on T.J. Watt and Chris Boswell being the best players in the NFL at their respective positions. 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 Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's NFL Week 6 win vs. the Raiders on Sunday afternoon at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Justin Fields ran the ball well when he had to, but has he shown he can be effective enough throwing the ball to remain as the starter instead of Russell Wilson? What led to running back Najee Harris' best game of the season so far? How did T.J. Watt affect the game even though he didn't record a sack on the stat sheet? And how can the Steelers take lessons from Sunday to ensure what happened in Vegas doesn't stay in Vegas? 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.

Following the Steelers' game against the Raiders in Las Vegas, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Paul Zeise analyze the matchup and give their observations. 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' 17-15 win over Cal on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. What led to the role reversal — where the Panthers defense had to bail out the offense instead of the other way around? Why did Eli Holstein struggle and have his first truly bad game as a college football player? Why were Jimmy Scott, Braylan Lovelace and the Panthers defensive front able to pressure Golden Bears quarterback Fernando Mendoza? And is it time Pitt fans start considering a trip to the College Football Playoff as a possibility? 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/Daily Collegian insider Joel Haas is joined by the Daily Collegian's Lyle Alenstein to recap Penn State's nervewracking 33-30 overtime win Saturday against USC at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. What led to Tyler Warren's historic day (17 catches for 222 yards) and is he among the best tight ends in college football? How did Drew Allar perform late in the game when the pressure was at its highest? Did Ryan Barker's game-winning field goal shore up his spot as the Nittany Lions' kicker? And why did the defense struggle in the first half against the Trojans? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo give their final analysis of Sunday's game in Las Vegas against the Raiders. As Russell Wilson nears full health, is this Justin Fields' last chance to keep the starting QB job? Plus they make their predictions around the NFL and if the Steelers can snap their two-game 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 Friday's episode of First 10, Jason Mackey talks about Joel Blomqvist's excellent performance in goal for the Penguins' first win of the season. Is Tristan Jarry already on the hot seat in net? Mackey also talks about the historic numbers being produced by Pitt's offense, the Pirates' offseason direction and the temperature of Derek Shelton's seat. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sitting in for colleague Paul Zeise, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey and joins host Adam Bittner to analyze the Steelers defense ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. Has coach Mike Tomlin's unit gotten off easy in terms of public criticism following two losses in which it was at least as bad as the offense? Has the defensive line beyond Cam Heyward been an underrated weakness as Keeanu Benton, Larry Ogunjobi, Isaiahh Loudermilk and Dean Lowry have all turned in unremarkable efforts up front? Are Minakh Fitzaptrick and DeShon Elliott being asked to do too much to compensate for other issues, contributing to communication problems? And what impact will the loss of Nick Herbig and Alex Highsmith have beyond the pass rush? Our duo tackles those topics, then talks about the QB situation with Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, plus the troubled receivers room with a frustrated George Pickens and little else in terms of meaningful contributions. Then later, Adam and Jason preview big games for Pitt and Penn State against Cal and USC, respectively; react to the Penguins' season-opening blowout loss to the New York Rangers; and give the thoughts on how far away high-leverage playoff baseball seems for 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 their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Joe Haas preview the fourth-ranked Nittany Lions' crucial road game against the USC Trojans on Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Are slow starts a concern for OC Andy Kotelnicki's unit as it enters a brand new Big Ten environment? Or is he using first halves to set up big plays, much like the 2016 conference championship team under Joe Moorhead did? How are Penn State receivers including Trey Wallace, Liam Clifford, Julian Fleming and Omari Evans performing relative to expectations. Are Penn State cornerbacks Jalen Kimber and A.J. Harris ready for the challenge of facing USC's high-flying passing game led by Miller Moss, Zachariah Branch and Jakobi Lane? And how important is Nick Singleton's potential return to teammate Kaytron Allen and the running game? Our duo tackles those topics as well as James Franklin's thoughts on the logistics of traveling to Los Angeles; the impact of USC's loss to Minnesota on Penn State's resume; and the implications of the Ohio State-Oregon game for the Lions. 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 team's QB situation ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. Could Justin Fields be benched in the middle of the game if the offense starts slowly again? How much blame should other players share? And what could Wilson bring to OC Arthur Smith's unit that Fields has not so far? Our duo tackles those questions and more later in the show. Including: What impact could the loss of Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith and DeMarvin Leal at the pass rushing slots, plus Cordarrelle Patterson and Jaylen Warren at the running back spots have in this game? And what is going on with George Pickens after a rough game against the Cowboys and concerns about his attitude? 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 Penguins' season on opening night, which includes a date with the New York Rangers at PPG Paints Arena. Can Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson stay healthy? Will the power play improve? Will young players step up and make impacts? Which training camp performances are most likely to continue? And how will all of those questions factor into whether this team can return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs? Then later, Jason weighs in on a slew of Steelers injuries to names including Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, DeMarvin Leal, Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. 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 Geryry Dulac report from the team's Tuesday practice and coach Mike Tomlin's news conference ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. What's next for Russell Wilson now that Tomlin says the QB has been cleared to fully participate in practice this week? And how much longer will Justin Fields hold onto the starting job? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: What's going on with George Pickens after his reduced workload in Week 5 against the Dallas Cowboys? Is he being punished? Or is there another reason? And what's the injury situation for players including Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, DeMarvin Leal, Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson? 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: Why hasn't TE Gavin Bartholomew gotten the ball more in OC Kade Bell's offense? Why wasn't coach Pat Narduzzi included on the search committee for a new AD to replace Heather Lyke? Will Bell ever use RBs Rodney Hammond and Desmond Reid at the same time on offense? And what is the ceiling for this team after its 5-0 start? Is it too early to starting talking about an ACC title and College Football Playoff appearance? 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 and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Will Graves of the Associated Press to discuss receiver George Pickens. How concerning was his lack of accountability for a fumble in NFL Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts? Or his disappearing act for much of the Week 5 loss to the Dallas Cowboys? Is his production worth the headaches he causes at times? And how should Mike Tomlin handle him moving forward? Our duo tackles those questions as well as the ongoing quarterback debate about Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. 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 the Steelers' quarterback situation ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. Could Russell Wilson get more from receivers including George Pickens, Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller and Calvin Austin III? Or has Justin Fields been limited by that group's own limitations? And what else should go into coach Mike Tomlin's decision at the position this week? Later, Jason gets into some Penguins and Pirates talk. Is this the year we should believe in goalie Tristan Jarry? What should we make of final roster cuts ahead of the season opener Wednesday? What can Rutger McGroarty accomplish in place of Brian Rust? And where do the Pirates stand after deciding to retain GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton last 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 an NFL Week 5 loss to the Dallas Cowboys at Acrisure Stadium. Is it time for coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith to consider a QB change to Russell Wilson after the offense's continued inconsistency under Justin Fields? Or do other factors need to be considered, including another rough outing from Najee Harris and the running game and drops from players including Connor Heyward? Our duo tackles those questions and more in later segments. Including: What's going on with George Pickens after one of his quietest outings of the season? And does the defense need to follow Minkah Fitzpatrick's advice and simplify after rampant communication issues allow Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and the Cowboys to pile up yards against DC Teryl Austin's purportedly elite unit? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Monday's episode of First 10, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Jason Mackey recaps the Steelers' last-minute loss to the Cowboys on Sunday night. Does Mike Tomlin's defense deserve the blame for allowing Dak Prescott to go wild? And did Justin Fields do enough to keep his starting quarterback job away from Russell Wilson? Plus, Mackey gives thoughts on Pitt entering the top 25 and the continued frustration with the Pirates. 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 the to team's NFL Week 5 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night at Acrisure Stadium. Did Justin Fields take a step back at QB with Russell Wilson's return from injury looming? Why did George Pickens have such a quiet night? What went wrong for the defense as Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and the Cowboys were able to sustain drives and score enough points despite three turnovers? Can the unit get back on track despite injuries to key players including Nick Herbig and Alex Highsmith? And what can coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith adjust heading into Week 6 against the Las Vegas Raiders. 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 Chris Dell react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 5 matchup with the Dallas Cowboys at Acrisure Stadium. Was Justin Fields good enough to keep the starting QB job with Russell Wilson getting healthy? How did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and the defense contain Dallas stars Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb? Did Najee Harris get back on track in the running game? How did injuries to Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence impact the game? And how explosive was receiver George Pickens able to be in OC Arthur Smith's offense? 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' 34-24 win over North Carolina on Saturday, with Stephen reporting from Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill, N.C. What allowed the Panthers to break their streak of seven straight losses on the road to the Tar Heels? Desmond Reid has solidified himself as one of college football's most electrifying players, but how can Kade Bell and the Pitt offense manage his workload? How can Pitt cut down on some of the sloppy mistakes it saw in the first half? And how can defensive coordinator Randy Bates make sure his defensive line is finishing plays? 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.