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

Post-Gazette sports editor and fantasy analyst Chris Dell breaks down his favorite draft strategies and top players to target — as well as to avoid — at every position for 2024. Chris and fellow show co-host Dalton Brown also run through their preferred sleeper picks, handcuff running backs and rookie wide receivers to keep an eye on this season. Is Christian McCaffrey the clear-cut number-one overall pick this season? Are there any Steelers worth drafting after a disastrous preseason so far? Who are Chris' favorite deep-sleeper candidates and league-winners? What is the best fantasy draft strategy to employ, specifically for 2024? When should we look to select elite fantasy QBs like Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen? Where is there the most hidden value at each position as we enter the late rounds? And why should we wait to draft an elite TE after both Sam LaPorta and Travis Kelce? 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. For more fantasy football content, including Chris' Top 150 rankings and his '30 in 30' 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.

On their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Daily Collegian/Post-Gazette Nittany Lions insider Joel Haas ponder over/unders for the team's biggest stars. Will Drew Allar surpass 3,000 passing yards for the first time in 2024? Could he challenge the 30 touchdown threshold? And will he throw more than his two interceptions from 2023 in new OC Andy Kotelnick's system? On the running back front, will either of Nick Singleton or Kaytron Allen surpass 1,000 yards? Can they combined for more than 20 touchdowns? In the passing game, can Julian Fleming and/or Trey Wallace be 1,000-yard receivers? Can names including Tyler Warren, Liam Clifford and Kaden Saunders crack 500 yards? And on defense, is 10 or more sacks a reasonable total for Abdul Carter amid his position switch. Our duo tackles those topics and coach James Franklin's captain picks announced this week. 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 host Adam Bittner to react to the Steelers' struggles offensively so far this NFL preseason. Is new OC Arthur Smith right that exhibition games can "distort reality"? Is it too soon to judge QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, considering Kenny Pickett's success last year that proved to be a mirage? And did expectations for the offensive line get out of control with young players including Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier still trying to find their way? Our duo tackles those topics, then gets into some Pirates talk. How badly did GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton bungle the Ke'Bryan Hayes injury situation? Do position changes for Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds make sense? And is Bryan De La Cruz already an MLB trade deadline bust, considering his struggles have coincided with the team falling out of the race? 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, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to ponder the team's QB situation ahead of its NFL preseason finale Saturday vs. the Detroit Lions. Will Russell Wilson get the bulk of the first-team reps? Or could he split time with an ascendant Justin Fields? Later, they tackle the offensive line's struggles. Can players including Broderick Jones and James Daniels actually fix the group's issues after taking accountability on Tuesday? And what did we learn from new OC Arthur Smith's comments about what must improve before the Week 1 matchup with the Atlanta Falcons? 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 explains why Pitt football needs running backs Desmond Reid -- the Western Carolina transfer -- and Rodney Hammond Jr. to thrive in the running game this season for new OC Kade Bell's offense to succeed. Then later, Jason talks Steelers and Pirates. Is new OC Arthur Smith right not to panic about the ugly NFL preseason performance of his unit? Does Mitch Keller's dominant start against the Texas Rangers on Tuesday feel wasted because of his team's recent 10-game losing streak? And when will Oneil Cruz take a step toward consistency? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko report from Steelers preseason practice on Tuesday at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on the South Side. The offensive line, which underperformed in the second preseason game against the Bills, is banged up. What should we make of Broderick Jones' elbow injury? Is he dealing with any other bumps and bruises? Will first-round NFL draft pick Troy Fautanu be ready for Week 1 against the Falcons? And what can Russell Wilson and Arthur Smith do to get the offense ready for the regular season? Our duo discusses 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 his weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes former Super Bowl champion Trai Essex to weigh in on the team's offensive line and QB situations. Are the issues we've seen from OT Broderick jones in the NFL preseason fixable? Or genuine cause for concern? Is Dan Moore Jr. underrated as a tackle option along with Troy Fautanu? And what will it take for the group as a whole to get on track under new OC Arthur Smith? Our duo tackles those topics, then ponders how much Justin Fields is really pushing Russell Wilson for the starting QB job in the eyes of head coach Mike Tomlin. 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 Andrew McCutchen's latest injury and what it means for his future with the Pirates. Should GM Ben Cherington bring him back next season as one of their more productive hitters? Or should they look to fill the DH spot with someone who has more positional flexibility? Then elsewhere on the Pirates front, Jason gives his thoughts on a 4-3 loss to the Texas Rangers on Monday night and how the team should look to replace 3B Ke'Bryan Hayes for the rest of the season amid his chronic back issues. The show ends with some Steelers talk. Specifically focusing on the lack of production from receivers so far in the NFL preseason. Does GM Omar Khan need to go out and find another playmaker at the position if he can't add the San Francisco 49ers Brandon Aiyuk via trade? Or are Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller and Quez Watkins getting less credit than they deserve? 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 Nate Yarnell still the Panthers' clear-cut starting quarterback? Or is Eli Holstein closing in? How many true freshmen see the field this year? And who are the big targets for Jeff Capel and Pitt basketball if they can't land Meleek Thomas? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the team's NFL preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. What's going on with QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, who have yet to produce a touchdown drive this preseason? What can be done about the offensive line's struggles as it navigates injuries to Troy Fautanu and Nate Herbig at the same time young linemen including Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick are trying to find their way? And how much is OC Arthur Smith's scheme to blame for the team's struggles to get in the end zone so far? Our do tackles those questions and much 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 the Steelers' preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills this past weekend. Why haven't we seen new OC Arthur Smith's offense translate well in-stadium yet? Why haven't tight ends including Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington seen more targets after heavy workloads at training camp in Latrobe? And what can we expect from RB Najee Harris amid an injury to backup Jaylen Warren? Jason tackles those topics, then gets into some Pirates after they won two out of three against the Seattle Mariners over the weekend. Specifically: What is the situation with 3B Ke'Bryan Hayes and the back issues that have plagued him this season? And how can we explain the continued absence of former No. 1 overall MLB draft pick Henry Davis? 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 talk about a rare series victory over the Mariners, as a blowout loss puts their end-of-season plans into focus. What should the team strive for as it closes out what will likely be a dissapointing end to a once-promising season? Has Joey Bart proven himself to be the catcher of the future? And where can Oneil Cruz actually settle defensively? 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 Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers' 9-3 NFL preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night at Acrisure Stadium. What should we take away from QB Russell Wilson's first start in a Steelers uniform, and is there really a battle for the starting job between him and Justin Fields after tonight? How did rookie Zach Frazier look as the team's starting center, especially now with Nate Herbig possibly done for the season? Also, how long will it take for this young, new Steelers offensive line to grow and develop chemistry early during the regular season? Our duo tackles those questions and also looks ahead to another week at Steelers training camp. What does the team need to clean up before its final preseason game at Detroit next Saturday afternoon, and who will suit up as roster cut-down day approaches? For more sports, visit post-gazette.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://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, Christopher Carter talks with Steelers insider Gerry Dulac about Russell Wilson's game plan in the preseason game against the Bills. Why are the Steelers convinced Wilson is the man for the job in Week 1? And has Justin Fields proven to be worthy of his own packages? Plus, what are the chances Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick all start on the offensive line? 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 host Adam Bittner to weigh Steelers GM Omar Khan's options if he can't complete a trade for San Francisco 49ers star Brandon Aiyuk. Would Khan be justified to feel content with names like Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins and Scotty Miller behind George Pickens? Or should he be looking at other options like the Seattle Seahawks' D.K. Metcalf, who played with QB Russell Wilson? Is Roman Wilson still a viable option as a No. 2 this year? And would a return for JuJu Smith-Schuster make any sense after he was cut by the New England Patriots this week? Our duo tackles those questions, then gets into some Pirates talk. Why does Oneil Cruz seem to take so much criticism from fans and media despite being one of the few truly productive players on GM Ben Cherington's roster? Were manager Derek Shelton's comments this week about playing good baseball until this current 10-game losing streak too generous? And is Cherington failing by his own criteria after his farm system was rated poorly 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 their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Daily Collegian/Post-Gazette insider Joel Haas ponder freshmen breakout candidates for coach James Franklin and the Nittany Lions in 2024. Can offensive linemen Cooper Cousins maintain his spring momentum and earn a starting spot? Can five-star prospect Luke Reynolds emerge in a tight end room that includes respected veterans Tyler Warren and Khalil Dinkins? How does Max Granville fit in behind names like Dani Dennis-Sutton and Abdul Carter at the EDGE spots? Can Tyseer Denmark find reps behind the likes of Julian Fleming, Trey Wallace and Liam Clifford? And can Quinton Martin see the field even with stars Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen ahead of him at running back? Our duo tackles those questions, Penn State's No. 8 ranking in the AP poll this week and a sizeable donation toward Beaver Stadium renovations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Quarterback Russell Wilson speaks with reporters after Steelers training camp practice Wednesday at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. He explains how he's feeling as he continues to work his way back from a calf injury and take over No. 1 reps from backup Justin Fields; his expectations of joint practices and an NFL preseason game with the Buffalo Bills this week; his growing relationships with coaches and teammates including Mike Tomlin and Cam Heyward; the opportunities new OC Arthur Smith's offense creates for receivers including top option George Pickens; and the growth of offensive linemen including Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes insider Brian Batko to break down the latest developments in the QB battle between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields at Steelers training camp. Is Wilson's light workload in Latrobe strange, even despite the injury? Has Fields become a legit threat to win the starting role? Or are GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin simply trying to evaluate Fields' potential future with the team beyond 2024? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Including: Are rookies such as Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, Payton Wilson, Mason McCormick and Beanie Bishop being given more opportunities to climb the depth chart than past classes of first-year players? And how is the secondary coming together with DBs including Donte Jackson, Cory Trice Jr. and Cam Sutton searching for roles alongside more established starters including Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and Minkah Fitzpatrick? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo talk after Monday's training camp practice about Arthur Smith's offense. Even though Smith is known more as a run-first guy, what can we learn from how aggressive the Steelers were throwing the ball on Friday against the Texans? How are Mike Tomlin and the rest of the Steelers coaching staff evaluating Justin Fields and, to a lesser extent, Russell Wilson? And how can Cordarrelle Patterson, fresh off the injury list, unlock more potential in the Steelers offense? Our duo discusses 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 their weekly Pitt football mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: How many games will it take new coordinator Kade Bell's offense to find its stride? Why are names including Zion Fowler and Lamar Seymore standing out at receiver and has Konata Mumpfield established himself as the No. 1 option? And why are guys including Nate Matlack and Francis Brewu among linemen to watch in coach Pat Narduzzi's 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.

Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith speaks to reporters after Steelers training camp practice Monday in Latrobe. He offers his thoughts on Cordarrelle Patterson working his way back into action after injury; QB Justin Fields' efforts in the preseason loss the Houston Texans, including snap issues with C Nate Herbig; the No. 2 receiver battle between Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson; the growth of rookie offensive linemen Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick in their first in-stadium outings Friday; and Russell Wilson's availability after his own injury. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their Pirates podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin discuss what the Pirates' goals should be now that losing sweeps against the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers have severely diminished their MLB postseason chances. Can young players including Henry Davis and Jack Suwinski prove they belong in the club's 2025 future and beyond? Will young starters Paul Skenes and Jared Jones see their innings counts managed more closely to limit injury risk? And will prospects including Billy Cook, Nick Yorke, Mike Burrows and Brandon Ashcraft see promotions from GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton by the end of the season? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo to tackle the hottest topics from Steelers training camp practice on Sunday. Do first-team reps signal rising stock for LB Payton Wilson and Cory Trice Jr. after strong NFL preseason debuts Friday vs. the Houston Texans? And is the defensive line showing improved depth thanks to guys including DeMarvin Leal and Montravius Adams stepping up? Our duo tackles those questions on defense, then studies the offense. What should we make of the offensive line discussion after first in-stadium looks at Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick? And what's the latest in the quarterback competition between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson? Is Wilson just being eased back in after his injury? Or is something more complicated at play? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo talk after Sunday's training camp practice about first-round pick Troy Fautanu's injury and the battle at center. Is Fautanu going to start on the sideline after a rough first preseason game and getting hurt? And is Zach Frazier taking over at center for Nate Herbig already? Plus, a look at how Cordarrelle Patterson's return could impact the new kickoff rules. 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 Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers 20-12 NFL preseason loss to the Houston Texans on Friday night at Acrisure Stadium. What should we take from QB Justin Fields' performance, which was accurate but undone by struggles around him? How much will Nate Herbig's two botched exchanges weigh in the center competition with rookie Zach Frazier? How did first-round pick Troy Fautanu look in his NFL debut? What about fellow rookie linebacker Payton Wilson? And how should Arthur Smith's first game as Steelers OC be graded? Our duo tackles those questions and looks ahead to next week at Steelers training camp. How much will we see from Russell Wilson at QB? And where do the Brandon Aiyuk trade discussions stand with the San Francisco 49ers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' first NFL preseason game Friday evening vs. the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium. How did Justin Fields look with the first team with Russell Wilson taking the night off? What happened in the offensive tackle battle between Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Dan Moore Jr? Which receivers -- including Roman Wilson, Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins and Scotty Miller -- had good nights in the battle for the No. 2 spot behind George Pickens, as Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors swirl? And how did new OC Arthur Smith's offense look overall? 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 his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey answers reader questions. Among them: What needs to change with the Pirates' Oneil Cruz? Should GM Ben Cherington consider bring back Aroldis Chapman amid bullpen struggles from David Bednar and Colin Holderman? What is Derek Shelton's future as Pirates manager amid the club's losing skid that's pushed it to the fringes of MLB postseason contention? And on the Steelers front, how tiring have the Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors with the San Francisco 49ers become? 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 the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter is joined by Steelers insider Gerry Dulac to discuss the latest Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors. Do the Steelers hold all the cards when it comes to the potential trade package? And what will we be watching for from Justin Fields in the Steelers' preseason opener against the Texans? 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 Daily Collegian/Post-Gazette insider Joel Haas react to comments by coaches and players at the Nittany Lions' media day this past weekend. Why are receivers including Tre Wallace, Kaden Saunders and Liam Clifford generating buzz early in fall camp? How will the complement transfer Julian Fleming? And how will coach James Franklin and new OC Andy Kotelnicki get the ball in their hands more frequently? Our duo tackles those questions and talks receivers and cornerbacks as well. Is Drew Allar still showing the confidence we saw earlier in the offseason? What should we make of his NFL draft potential? Why does Franklin love praising backups including Beau Pribula and Jaxon Smolik? And are corners including A.J. Harris, Jalen Kimber, Cam Miller, Zion Tracey, Audavion Collins and Elliot Washington ready to face the best the sport has to offer should they reach the College Football playoff? To end the show, Adam and Joel analyze the first coaches poll of the season and react to the ongoing fallout of the NCAA's House settlement. 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 host Adam Bittner to weigh the potential impact of a Brandon Aiyuk trade with the San Francisco 49ers on the rest of the Steelers' roster. Could GM Omar Khan be forced to choose between Aiyuk and George Pickens as soon as next season for salary cap reasons? What impact could a major deal with Aiyuk mean for the QB situation with Russell Wilson, Justin Fields or someone else? And will there be enough cap space left to get deals done with names like Pat Freiermuth, Najee Harris and/or Cam Heyward? Our duo tackles those questions and more on the Steelers front, then gets into some Pirates, Penguins and Pitt football talk. Is the latest losing skid proof that GM Ben Cherington waited too long to upgrade his offense before the MLB trade deadline? Does this lineup have any serious hope with names like Ke'Bryan Hayes struggling so badly? Can this club afford to move on from Andrew McCutchen in the offseason? What should we make of the delay in a contract extension between the Penguins and Sidney Crosby? And what should we make of the Panthers' QB battle between Nate Yarnell and Eli Holstein? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Thursday's edition of First 10, Jason Mackey talks about another incredibly frustrating Pirates loss, as the bullpen gives up another game while Yasmani Grandal and Connor Joe fail to come through in the clutch. Are there any answers to stop their free fall from contention? Plus a look at the Steelers' first preseason game Friday and lingering concerns over Sidney Crosby's contract. 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 insiders Gerry Dulac report from Steelers training camp practice in Latrobe ahead of the first NFL preseason game Friday vs. the Houston Texans. How much -- or how little -- will we see big names including Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Russell Wilson? Could Justin Fields see as many as three drives at QB before giving way to backups? Why have Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins been standing out at receiver this week? What's going on with kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson ahead of the Steelers' first experience with the NFL's new kickoff rules? And will offensive line rookies Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick maintain their momentum into preseason games? 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.

Quarterback Russell Wilson speaks to reporters following practice at Steelers training camp on Wednesday. He explains how he's feeling now that he's been integrated into practices following his calf injury; his expectations to play in NFL preseason games starting Friday vs. the Houston Texans; his excitement level to see backups including Kyle Allen and John Rhys Plumlee work; how his deep ball has evolved over time; and wats that deep ball fits with receivers including George Pickens, Calvin Austin III and Quez Watkins. 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko react to reports that the team has "re-engaged" in trade talks with the San Francisco 49ers regarding receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Is a deal now a serious possibility? What would GM Omar Khan be willing to give up? And how do the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns fit into the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions, then gets into some depth chart and training camp topics. What does it mean that first-round NFL draft pick Troy Fautanu is listed as the backup at left tackle? Are Spencer Anderson and Dylan Cook fighting for the final offensive line roster spot? What does it mean that Beanie Bishop is listed as the starter at slot corner? And what is Cole Holcomb's future after being listed as a third-teamer at linebacker? 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 Pirates' wild loss to the San Diego Padres on Tuesday night. Could the PNC Park drainage woes that caused a long delay become symbolic of the season falling apart? Will manager Derek Shelton's team lose out on a Bailey Falter start while still having to face the Padres' Dylan Cease later in the week? And could we see names like top prospect Thomas Harrington called up from the minors soon to help with the stretch run toward a possible MLB wild card berth? Jason tackles those topics, then weighs in on the latest in the Sidney Crosby contract drama with the Penguins and developments from Steelers camp. Could a trade for the San Francisco 49ers' Brandon Aiyuk be coming soon? What does it mean that Russell Wilson is getting close to practicing fully? And that Troy Fautanu is seeing first-team reps? 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 Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap practice at Steelers training camp on Sunday in Latrobe. Is Russell Wilson's workload expanding at QB as he returns from his injury? How's the relationship between receiver George Pickens and position coach Zach Azzanni unfolding after their dust-up early in camp? How did No. 1 NFL draft pick Troy Fautanu look getting first-team reps? Why do Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier continue to impress? And what does it all mean for the preseason opener Friday vs. the Houston Texans? 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 tackles the latest trade rumors tying San Francisco 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk to the Steelers. Is a deal finally a legit possibility amid GM Omar Khan's search for a No. 2 receiver across from George Pickens? Or are Aiyuk's contract demands still a problem for making a swap work? Later, Jason looks ahead to the Pirates' key series against the San Diego Padres this week at PNC Park. How important is it for the club's postseason hopes? How much will San Diego sluggers including Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. challenge probable Pirates starters Bailey Falter, Marco Gonzales and Luis Ortiz? And how much more will the Pirates need from guys like Gonzales and Ke'Bryan Hayes 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.

On their weekly Pitt football mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Stephen Thompson answer reader questions. Among them: Is there a true competition at QB? Or has coach Pat Narduzzi pretty much decided that Nate Yarnell will start over Eli Holstein barring a rash of mistakes by Yarnell? What are the odds of Pitt winning seven games and getting back to a bowl game this season? Will defensive lineman Bam Brima be missed after his recently announced departure? And how will new offensive coordinator Kade Bell use his running backs including Rodey Hammond Jr.? 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 streams his daily First 10 podcast live and tackles the hot topics in Pittsburgh sports. Can the Pirates still make the MLB postseason after a disastrous loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday that included questionable decisions from manager Derek Shelton? What should the club do with shortstop Oneil Cruz amid his continued struggles in the field? And what should the future of the bullpen be after another ugly outing for reliever Colin Holderman? There will also be plenty of Steelers training camp and Penguins talk. How are position battles at QB with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, plus offensive line with Broderick Jones, Dan Moore Jr. and Troy Fautanu shaping up? What will the preseason opener against the Houston Texans bring? And what is the deal with Sidney Crosby's contract negotiations? 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo to recap the first week in pads at Steelers training camp. Were rookie offensive linemen Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick the biggest winners? How soon could Fautanu start at tackle, and what would that mean for fellow tackles Dan Moore Jr. and Broderick Jones? And what can we expect in the first preseason game Friday vs. the Houston Texans? Our duo also tackles those questions and more. Including: Is Justin Fields still gaining ground on Russell Wilson? And what are the highlights of Ray's first 53-man roster projection of the preseason? 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 discuss the series against the Diamondbacks, which ended in dramatic fashion as Colin Holderman blew another lead and another Paul Skenes start was wasted. Did manager Derek Shelton cost his team a critical game in the NL wild card race? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap Sunday's training camp practice as the defense responds with a bounce-back day after the offense had several standout days. DeMarvin Leal is back to looking like the athletic force he looked like when the Steelers drafted him, while corner Cory Trice is inspiring hope for the secondary. 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 Brian Batko report on everything that went down at the Steelers' annual "Friday Night Lights" training camp practice at Latrobe Memorial Stadium. How did the players and fans interact at this special event? How did Justin Fields perform in another practice with the first team as Russell Wilson continues to nurse his calf injury? And what led to the running backs winning the fan-favorite "backs on backers" drill? 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 answers reader questions. Among them: Is it time for the Pirates to move SS Oneil Cruz to the outfield or designated hitter spot amid his struggles in the field this season, highlighted by a three-error game Wednesday vs. the Houston Astros? What are the Penguins' chances of making the playoffs? And will GM Kyle Dubas make a big move by trade G Tristan Jarry and/or acquiring a top-six winger to play alongside either Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin? What is catcher Henry Davis's future with the Pirates after another year of underwhelming development? And what are Jason's latest thoughts on the Steelers training camp QB battle between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson? 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette insider Brian Batko to react to a chippy week at Steelers training camp in Latrobe. Was the practice fight on Wednesday after a hit on QB Justin Fields a bad sign for team camaraderie? Or was it an important part of implementing a nastier identity for the offense under OC Arthur Smith, who was to play physically with running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren and a revamped offensive line led by Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier? Our duo tackles those questions, the return of Markus Golden to the OLB corps, and previews the Friday Night Lights practice at Latrobe Memorial Stadium. Can the offensive linemen maintain momentum against defensive linemen like Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? And will we see more from QB Russell Wilson amid his calf injury? 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, the host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Joel Haas look ahead to the Nittany Lions' media day this weekend and ponder expectations for them in 2024. Can they win in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff? Not just earn a berth in the field? Is that a fair expectation with big names including Drew Allar, Nick Singleton, Kaytron Allen, Abdul Carter and Julian Fleming in the lineup? Or is coach James Franklin's team still at too big a talent deficit to teams like Ohio State, Oregon and Georgia to expect to be a serious championship contender? And will it be easier or harder to make the Big Ten championship now that the conference has scrapped its divisional format with the addition of Oregon, USC, UCLA and Washington? Our duo tackles those questions and also analyzes the decisions to play the White Out game against Washington on Nov. 9 instead of Ohio State the week before. 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 Gerry Dulac and Brian Batko have the latest from Steelers training camp Thursday at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. How does the re-signing of OLB Markus Golden impact the defense moving forward? Did T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward get the unit back on track in the seven shots drill Thursday after several days of offensive domination? And can rookie offensive linemen Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick continue to show practice under the Friday Night Lights practice spotlight on Friday at Latrobe Memorial Stadium? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to analyze the hype around the rookie class following one week of Steelers training camp. Are names including Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, Payton Wilson, Roman Wilson and even Mason McCormick on track to see significant time faster than Broderick Jones, Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton did a year ago? Or will coach Mike Tomlin and coordinators Teryl Austin and Arthur Smith still be more cautious? And is there less immediate pressure on this group amid the installation of Smith's offense and the competition at QB? Our duo tackles those questions and more on the Steelers front. Including: What's the level of concern at WR amid Roman Wilson's injury? Are running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren plus tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington showing they can make up for any deficit at that position? And why does the Russell Wilson vs. Justin Fields debate seem so divisive? Then the guys wrap up the show with talking about Pirates GM Ben Cherington's moves at the MLB trade deadline. Are the additions of Bryan De La Cruz and Isiah Kiner-Falefa enough to get this team in the postseason? How much pressure should Cherington be under if they don't? What happened to the team's organizational depth in the middle infield? And what's a target win total for this team to snatch a National League wild card slot? 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 gives his thoughts on Pitt football at the start of their training camp on the South Side. Will new OC Kade Bell's emphasis on speed help the Panthers to a quick bounceback from their 3-9 record a year ago? What's TE Gavin Bartholomew's upside in this system? How much optimism is reasonable for Nate Yarnell and Eli Holstein at QB plus Rodney Hammond Jr. at running back? Are 8 wins possible for coach Pat Narduzzi's team despite key departures via graduation and the transfer portal? Jason tackles those questions and more, then pivots to some Pirates topics. How much can Jake Woodford help this bullpen following his call-up from the minors? What's the link between Paul Skenes and Konnor Griffin, this season's first-round MLB draft pick who signed this week? And what should we take away from the loss to the Houston Astros on Wednesday? 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 Wednesday's eventful and scrappy Steelers training camp practice at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. What caused the practice-field fight making the rounds on social media? How were Elandon Roberts and Patrick Queen involved? What does it say about rookies Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick that they stepped in to protect Justin Fields? And could that give the team a much needed jolt of energy as it continues through the daily grind of training camp? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.