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

Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Steelers' hiring of former Atlanta Falcons head coach and Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator. Why did Smith make sense, given coach Mike Tomlin's stated criteria that included experience in the role? Did the criteria itself make sense? Or should the Steelers have chosen a less experienced candidate like the Texans' Jerrod Johnson or the Rams' Zac Robinson because of their connection to innovative Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan coaching trees? What went wrong for Smith in Atlanta, where he was fired? Why does his stint as OC with the Titans possibly make him a good fit for the Steelers' personnel including Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren? And perhaps most importantly, how can he help the development of QB Kenny Pickett in a way that former OC Matt Canada could not? 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 weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes ESPN's Brooke Pryor to analyze owner Art Rooney II's season-ending news conference. Is he starting to feel the fans' frustration at seven seasons without a playoff win? Or is he still satisfied fielding a team that can at least be in the mix every year? What did he have to say about coach Mike Tomlin and his freedom to choose his own offensive coordinator? And how does he size up the quarterbacks with Kenny Pickett heading into Year 3 and Mason Rudolph hitting free agency? 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.

In their weekly Pitt football mailbag video, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter answer reader questions. Among them: How would coach Pat Narduzzi have handled the fourth down decisions that the Lions' Dan Campbell faced in the NFC championship against the 49ers? Is Narduzzi already micromanaging new offensive coordinator Kade Bell by naming Nate Yarnell to be the starting quarterback, despite bringing in Alabama transfer Eli Holstein to compete? Why did Narduzzi say he "couldn't mention" things he learned from his team's 3-9 season? And on the basketball front, when does coach Jeff Capel's team have to show more than "good effort?" And which of Pitt's forward provide the most long-term value to the lineup? 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 Penguins podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Matt Vensel and Andrew Destin analyze a trying week for the team that included an embarrassing own-goal by Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin in a loss at Arizona. What has to change for this team to make the Stanley Cup playoffs? Will GM Kyle Dubas make a decision about buying or selling at the NHL trade deadline by the All-Star break? And what can coach Mike Sullivan do to get Malkin back on track? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss the team's OC search and the candidacy of former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith. How does he compare to previously named candidates including the Texans' Jarrod Johnson and former Panthers OC Thomas Brown? How could his success under Mike Vrabel in Tennessee translate to Pittsburgh? And how many of coach Mike Tomlin's boxes does he check? Our duo tackles those questions, previews the Senior Bowl ahead of Ray's trip to scout NFL draft prospects there this wee and recaps the weekend's conference championship games. Did the Ravens' Lamar Jackson come up small in the big moment? Or did teammates including Zay Flowers let him down in the loss to Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs? And what was the Lions' Dan Campbell thinking with some of his decisions late in the NFC title game against the 49ers with a Super Bowl bid on the line? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Post-Gazette's weekly Steelers mock draft tracker video, Christopher Carter joins Adam Bittner to analyze the latest batch of picks for coach Mike Tomlin's team from around the Internet. Why are so many mocks pointing toward Georgia OT Amarius Mims early in the process? Should a name like Oregon State's Taliese Fuaga be on the radar as well? Why don't many mocks see defensive line as a weakness despite the uncertain futures of Cam Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi? Does Georgia's Kamari Lassiter have a lot in common with Joey Porter Jr., who the Steelers drafted at corner last season? And could a corner as solid as Alabama's Terrion Arnold fall all the way to the Steelers at No. 20 in the first round? Our duo tackles question and also analyzes the latest Post-Gazette reporting that Texans quarterback coach Jerrod Johnson is interviewing for the Steelers' OC role after mentoring C.J. Stroud during his impressive rookie season in Houston. 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 the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to discuss a range of issues on the team's coaching front. Were general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin right to give DC Teryl Austin a two-year extension this week? Is Panthers OC Thomas Brown an underrated candidate for the Steelers' OC job despite a lackluster year with QB Bryce Young in Carolina? They also look ahead to the AFC championship between Patrick Mahomes' Chiefs and Lamar Jackson's Ravens. As well as the NFC title game between Jared Goff's Lions and Brock Purdy's 49ers. 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 suggestions from Peter King, Ed Bouchette, Joe Starkey and others that the Steelers could pursue veteran QB Russell Wilson in NFL free agency if he's cut by the Broncos. Would Wilson's presence put too much pressure on Kenny Pickett's development within a new offense? Does Wilson have much left to offer at age 35? Is Mason Rudolph a preferable option to pair with Pickett? What about options like Justin Fields, Kirk Cousins and Jacoby Brissett? Our duo tackles those questions, the latest in the Steelers' OC search and Cam Heyward's future with the team. They also analyze the Pirates' deal with Aroldis Chapman; the Penguins recent struggles; and Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia's college basketball upsets this past 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes former Steelers and Penn State standout Justin King to break down the Steelers' OC search so far. Are interviews by the Rams' Zac Robinson and former Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury good signs? Which would be the better choice between the two? And which other possible candidate deserve interviews? Our duo tackles those topics and also looks at the team's secondary. What grade does Joey Porter Jr. deserve for his rookie campaign? What pieces should remain around him? And where should the Steelers look to add from the outside? 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 Seth Engle issue grades in their 2023 season report card. What mark does James Franklin deserve for an offense that failed under coordinator Mike Yurcich but a defense that soared under DC Manny Diaz? How did QB Drew Allar fare in his first season as a starter? What credit do running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen for finishing the season strong after a slow start? And did linebacker Abdul Carter live up to expectations? Our duo tackles those topics, reacts to receiver Julian Fleming's new NIL ad; analyzes former PSU coach Bill O'Brien's move to Ohio State as offensive coordinator; and offers some thoughts on the basketball program after an upset of No. 11 Wisconsin but an ugly road loss to the Buckeyes. 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 insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Pirates' signing of Aroldis Chapman in MLB free agency. How much can he help manager Derek Shelton's bullpen at this stage of his career? Does the signing signal that relievers including David Bednar and Colin Holderman could be on the trading block? Or is it setting up a deal by GM Ben Cherington for possible starting pitching options including the Marlins' Braxton Garrett or Edward Cabrera? And should there be any concern about his clubhouse fit after his beanball wars with now-teammate Andrew McCutchen and domestic violence accusations from 2015? 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 weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Andy Benoit of the 33rd Team to discuss the team's offensive coordinator search. Can whomever the Steelers hire salvage Kenny Pickett's career? Could Mason Rudolph be an effective starter in the right system over the long-term? What are Andy's final thoughts on Matt Canada's tenure as OC? And is coach Mike Tomlin's stated criteria for his next OC too narrow and limiting? 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.

In their weekly Pitt sports mailbag, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter answer reader questions. Among them: How many games does Pitt have win to reach the NCAA tournament after upsetting No. 7 Duke over the weekend? Could coach Jeff Capel use more three-guard lineups with Bub Carrington, Jaland Lowe and Ishmael Leggett now that they're all showing progress? What does the football coaching staff really know about transfer portal additions? And what roles does Tiquan Underwood fill on Kade Bell's offensive staff? 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 insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to discuss his trip to the club's facility in the Dominican Republic and his exclusive interview with owner Bob Nutting. Does Nutting expect more moves on the pitching from from general manager Ben Cherington in MLB free agency or on the trade market? Why are the Marlins' Braxton Garrett and Edward Cabrera ideal trade targets? What are Nutting's feelings on controversial free agents like Domingo German and Trevoe Bauer? And what the Shoehei Ohtani contract means for small-market clubs like the Pirates? Our duo tackles those topics as well as Jason's thoughts on the Dominican academy and how close it is to producing results for the club. 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 Penguins podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Andrew Destin and Matt Vensel analyze midseason decisions looming for general manager Kyle Dubas. Will the team hold onto to Jake Guentzel, who's in the final year of his contract? Or could he be dealt to bring some talent to the roster? What are the team's biggest needs ahead of the trade deadline? And are they on track to be buyers or sellers? 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, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss moves the team can make with its own roster. Could RB Najee Harris and TE Pat Freiermuth be in line for extensions as they near the end of their rookie contracts? Why are names including Chuks Okorafor and Patrick Peterson at the top of list of potential cuts? And what are the team's biggest needs as NFL free agency and the NFL draft approach? 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.

In the first NFL mock draft tracker podcast of the offseason, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo analyze the most interesting team draft pundits made for the team this week. Is Washington's Michael Penix Jr. a realistic first-round option for this team as it ponders its options beyond Kenny Pickett? Would Iowa's Cooper DeJean pair well with Joey Porter Jr. at cornerback? Could Georgia's Amarius Mims be a target to play opposite former teammate Broderick Jones at the tackle spots? And should linebackers like Jeremiah Trotter Jr. be on general manager Omar Khan's radar after piecing together solid options through free agency and trades this past offseason? 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 on the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko break down some hot topics around the team. The duo gives their take on the quarterback situation with Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph, then gets into the search for a new offensive coordinator. How far outside Steelers circles will coach Mike Tomlin look? Could a total outsider like former Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury be an option? What about Eric Bieniemy, former Commanders coach and Chiefs OC with Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes? The conversation wraps up by looking at which players could be leaders for the offense next season. 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 headlines from Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's end-of-season news conference. Will Tomlin truly make Kenny Pickett compete to be the starting quarterback in 2024? Or will it realistically be his job to lose during the season? Will the offensive coordinator hire truly come from the outside? Or will the new coordinator have some connection to the Steelers or local colleges like Pitt and Penn State? Our duo tackles those questions and also offseason topics to watch identified by Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko. Will defensive coordinator Teryl Austin and special teams coordinator Danny Smith return? Will players entering contract years including Najee Harris, Pat Freiermuth, James Daniels and Diontae Johnson get new deals? Would the team be better off with Cam Heyward back? Or spending his large cap hit on multiple other players to fill needs? And should veterans like Patrick Peterson and Minkah Fitzpatrick be trade candidates in hopes of gaining NFL draft capital? 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 college basketball podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Abby Schnable discuss the fading March Madness dreams of Pitt, Duquesne and Robert Morris basketball. What do the Panthers and Dukes still have to play for if it's not postseason berths? And whose job is most in jeopardy if situations don't improve from the group of Pitt's Jeff Capel, Duquesne's Keith Dambrot and RMU's Andy Toole? Our duo tackles those topics and also reacts to Penn State's upset of No. 11 Wisconsin this week, led by key players including Kanye Clary and Ace Baldwin Jr. 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 Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo. The two react to news from colleague Gerry Dulac that coach Mike Tomlin will return in 2024 following the team's NFL wild card playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday. What changes will he look to make, assuming a contract extension is coming? Could he move on from defensive coordinator Teryl Austin? Or do injuries to key players including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick give the unit a bright future if Austin returns? What will Tomlin look for in hiring an offensive coordinator to replace Matt Canada? And how will he handle the quarterback situation between Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett after Rudolph proved a solid replacement for Pickett with the season on the line? 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 their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Seth Engle break down some major transfer portal additions in the past week. Is Georgia transfer A.J. Harris -- a former five-star prospect -- the No. 1 cornerback the Nittany Lions need? How much does Florida transfer Jalen Kimber's experience help the CB room? Will D-III commit Logan Cunningham make any kind of impact with the receivers? And where should coach James Franklin still be looking to add? Our duo tackles those topics as well as coaching and personnel changes around the Big Ten. What does Kalen DeBoer's departure from Washington to replace Nick Saban at Alabama do to the Huskies? How much will Michigan miss core players like J.J. McCarthy, Blake Corum and Roman Wilson after their NFL draft declarations? And will Jim Harbaugh leave for the NFL? 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 Penguins podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Andrew Destin and Matt Vensel discuss Matt's midseason report card for the team. Why did players including Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel gets A's? Why have blue liners including Ryan Graves and Pierre-Olivier Joseph marked as disappointments? How did goalies Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic fare? And what have the team's biggest surprises been so far? 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.

Long-time Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ed Bocuhette joins host Adam Bittner on the weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast to react to the Steelers' NFL wild card playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday at Highmark Stadium. What should we make of the rumors swirling around coach Mike Tomlin after he stormed out of his post-game news conference when asked about his future? Will this defense led by Minkah Fitzpatrick, T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward ever be great like the Super Bowl defenses of the 1970s and 2000s after yet another playoff meltdown? Or is that core coming to the end of its prime years? Where should general manager Omar Khan focus in the NFL draft with so many clear holes on defense? Does the team have its guy at QB in Kenny Pickett or Mason Rudolph? Or should it add to its mix through the NFL draft or free agency? And do the Steelers have enough at the skill positions with names including Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, Diontae Johnson, George Pickens or Pat Freiermuth? Or are more weapons needed? 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, Christopher Carter and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Wild Card playoff matchup with the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. What impact did the wild Western New York weather have on the contest? Did Mason Rudolph, Najee Harris, George Pickens and the offense maintain momentum, or go out with a whimper? How did the absence of T.J. Watt impact the defense? And how did the return of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Damontae Kazee help? 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 Steelers insider Brian Batko to analyze the impact the winter weather postponement will have on the team's NFL wild card playoff game against the Buffalo Bills on Monday in Orchard Park, N.Y. Will the improved weather conditions help Josh Allen and the Bills as heavy favorites against Mike Tomlin's team? Or does the chance of snow still help Mason Rudolph, Najee Harris and the Steelers offense? And what matchups might we have overlooked in the leadup to this game? Our duo tackles those questions and analyzes results from the rest of the AFC playoffs. Was the Browns' blowout loss to the Texans a surprise? Can C.J. Stroud and Houston be real threats for the AFC title? Or are the Chiefs still the team to beat? And should the Steelers draw hope from the seventh-seeded Packers' domination of the second-seeded Cowboys on Sunday? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the weekly Pitching In Pirates podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Jason Mackey and Andrew Destin share their thoughts from a busy Piratesfest weekend at the David L. Lawrence convention center. Did president Travis Williams, general manager Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton have good answers for fans during the Q and A session? What's the latest on the catching journey of former first overall MLB draft pick Henry Davis? Is shortstop Oneil Cruz going to be fully healthy in time for the start of the season? And what does Andrew McCutchen's return mean for the team in 2024? Our duo tackles those topics and explain their preferred Opening Day lineups with spring training only a few weeks away. 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 the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko preview the team's NFL wild card playoff game against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday in Orchard Park, N.Y. They analyze the way a weather forecast packed with snow and especially wind could impact the game; whether the return of Minkah Fitzpatrick from injury can help offset the loss of T.J. Watt; and Joey Porter Jr.'s ability to shut down the connection between Buffalo stars Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs. 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 discuss a range of hot Steelers topics. Could coach Mike Tomlin really leave the team to take time off or possibly move onto another gig in 2025, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter and FOX's Jay Glazer? Is he just looking for leverage in contract negotiations? Is Tomlin babying Kenny Pickett by keeping him at No. 1 on the depth chart despite starting Mason Rudolph in this week's NFL wild card playoff game against the Buffalo Bills? And should Mike Sullivan get consideration for the full-time offensive coordinator job after the unit's late-season success? Our duo tackles those topics, reacts to Michigan's College Football Playoff national championship victory and grades transfer portal additions including QB Eli Holstein for Pitt and Julian Fleming and Nolan Rucci for Penn State 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 college basketball show, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Abby Schnable talk about the disappointing season so far for college hoops in Pittsburgh. Does Pitt have any chance of returning to the NCAA tournament? Will the bye week help or hurt them? And should we be surprised that Duquesne and Robert Morris are performing below expectations? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Adam Bittner welcomes former Steelers and Penn State cornerback Justin King to discuss the team's Super Bowl chances. Are there any parallels with the 2005 team that won the championship as the final seed in the AFC playoffs? Are the Bills the toughest team the Steelers might see on the AFC side of the bracket? How hard would it be to beat the Ravens for a third time this season? And which team among the Browns, Texans, Chiefs and Dolphins would be the ideal AFC championship opponent. Our duo tackles those topics, breaks down the matchup between Steelers rookie Joey Porter Jr. and Bills star Stefon Diggs; studies coach Mike Tomlin's options in the secondary this week; and analyzes a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter that Tomlin may want to take some time off and eventually join another team. 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 Seth Engle discuss Michigan's College Football Playoff national championship victory over Washington in the context of coach James Franklin's Nittany Lions program. How did Franklin fall so far behind Michigan's Jim Harbaugh after beating him in three out of four years from 2017-2020? What lessons should Penn State learn from the Wolverines' ascent, particularly from their continuity in the form of players like J.J. McCarthy, Roman Wilson and Blake Corum. And what did their domination of Michael Penix Jr. and the Huskies signal about the future of the Big Ten wen Washington, USC, UCLA and Oregon join in 2024? Our duo tackles those topics and also checks in on recruiting news with the commitments of receiver Julian Fleming and Nolan Rucci over the past week. Plus, the possible looming pledge of Georgia cornerback transfer A.J. Harris. 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 ESPN NFL analyst Louis Riddick to discuss some hot topics ahead of the team's wild card playoff game against the Bills on Sunday in Buffalo. Should T.J. Watt be named defensive player of the year over foes like the Browns' Myles Garrett and the Cowboys' Micah Parsons after leading the league in sacks for a third time? Does Mason Rudolph have a long-term future in Pittsburgh after leading the team to the playoffs amid Kenny Pickett's injury? Could the Steelers look for another quarterback in the NFL draft? And do the Steelers have a real chance to upset Josh Allen and the Bills? 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.

In their weekly Pitt football mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter answer reader questions. Among them: Is Alabama transfer Eli Holstein the new favorite to start for the Panthers at quarterback? Can he have more success than past transfer portal additions such as Phil Jurkovec and Kedon Slovis? And how will the offensive coaching staff change after assistants Tim Salem (tight ends), Andre Powell (running backs and special teams) and Dave Borbely (offensive line) were let go? 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 their weekly Penguins podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Matt Vensel and Andrew Destin analyze some hot topics around the team. Among them: What worked for the team in December as it closed 2023 on a hot streak? Is the goalie situation more of a tandem now with Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic? What is Jake Guentzel's future in Pittsburgh after he offered little clarity in an interview with SiriusXM? And how will coach Mike Sullivan and general manager Kyle Dubas handle Ryan Graves' slow start after giving him a lucrative free agent contract in the offseason? 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, Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo joins Christopher Carter to preview the AFC playoffs. Can Pittsburgh shock the world against the Bills and make a serious run? And how will Mason Rudolph fare against Bills Mafia and a talented defense? 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 Christopher Carter react as the Steelers clinch a berth in the AFC playoffs with the Jaguars' NFL Week 18 loss to the Titans in Tennessee. Now that they're in, which team should they hope to face in the wild-card round? The Kansas City Chiefs or Buffalo Bills? How could good news about T.J. Watt's MCL injury impact the team's playoff run? What will it mean for the organization's big picture if Mason Rudolph gets the start over Kenny Pickett at quarterback? And how much credit does coach Mike Tomlin deserve for getting the team to rally after falling to 7-7? 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 Christopher Carter react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 18 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Did Mason Rudolph stay hot after seizing the starting quarterback job from Kenny Pickett? Did Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt find a way to slow a Ravens offense that was missing Lamar Jackson? Did George Pickens yet another big outing? And did Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren keep rolling after dominating the Seahawks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of the Pitching In podcast, Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Michael McKenry take a look a couple of big-name pitching targets still available: Trevor Bauer and Madison Bumgarner. Plus more thoughts on their offseason in totality, which has been distressingly quiet. 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 the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by the Acrisure Fan Advantage, host Christopher Carter welcomes Ravens Vault podcast host Sarah Ellison to break down her team's NFL Week 18 matchup with the Steelers. Does Baltimore have anything to play for despite locking up the AFC's No. 1 seed last week with a win against the Miami Dolphins? Are AFC North foes like the Steelers and Cleveland Browns the Ravens' biggest obstacles on their path to the Super Bowl? And what matchup's will Sarah be looking at most closely with Lamar Jackson and possibly other key starters like Gus Edwards, Zay Flowers and Odell Beckham Jr. getting rested for the first round of the playoffs? 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 a special Thursday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to preview their NFL Week 18 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. How much will QB Lamar Jackson's absence impact the matchup? How many other Ravens starters might sit with the No. 1 seed clinched? Does the list include Gus Edwards, Zay Flowers, Kyle Hamilton or Odell Beckham Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions, ponders whether Mason Rudolph is getting enough praise from inside the locker room and previews the other games relevant to the Steelers playoff hopes, Bills-Dolphins, Jaguars-Titans and Texans-Colts among them. 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 college basketball show, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Abby Schnable analyze Pitt's uneven start to the season and conference play. Do the Panthers need more from Blake Hinson, even as he's their leading scorer? What identity is coach Jeff Capel's team taking on? And why is West Virginia's RaeQuan Battle having one of the more interesting seasons in college basketball? 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.

In his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnists Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to discuss Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce's recent defense of Steelers coach Mike Tomlin. Does Kelce have a point in praising Tomlin for his non-losing seasons streak? Or do national observers like him not see the full picture? Is Mike Tomlin's decision to use Mitch Trubisky as Kenny Pickett's backup over Mason Rudolph going to cost the Steelers a playoff berth? And if it does, will he deserve the criticism he receivers? Our duo tackles those topics; analyzes Penn State's Peach Bowl loss to Ole Miss and what it means for James Franklin's program; and also reacts to wins by Michigan and Washington at the end of a bowl season plagued by opt-outs from NFL-bound players. 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 Seth Engle analyze the Nittany Lions' ugly loss to Ole Miss in the Peach Bowl. Did the Rebels' 540 yards of offense prove that departed coordinator Manny Diaz's unit was overrated with rankings inflated by putrid Big Ten competition? Or were the opt-outs of NFL-bound players including Johnny Dixon, Chop Robinson and Kalen King determining factors? And can new coordinator Tom Allen get this group ready to compete with top offenses outside the Big Ten, assuming Penn State is able to make the College Football Playoff next season? Our duo tackles those topics and a range of others on offense. Will KeAndre Lambert-Smith be back with the receivers last season after disappearing late in the 2023 season? Is the starting QB job Drew Allar's to lose? Or could Beau Pribula make a push for playing time? And have Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen gotten back on track after their explosiveness was diminished for much of the year? 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 Ray Fittipaldo react to quarterback Kenny Pickett's response to rumors that he refused to serve as the team's backup quarterback during the NFL Week 17 win against the Bengals. They also analyze the way Mason Rudolph's presence has helped the entire offense find balance. And they weigh in on the Steelers' rookie class that includes Broderick Jones, Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton and how it has lived up to the hype. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In their weekly Pitt basketball mailbag, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter answer reader questions. Amon them: Which members of last year's NCAA tournament team do the Panthers most miss? Is Jamarius Burton at the top of that list? When will Jaland Love get a chance to start at point guard for coach Jeff Capel's team? Should Capel be on the hot seat if this team has a losing season? And how many games does Pitt need to win in January to stay in the mix for another March Madness bid? 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 joins host Adam Bittner to discuss Kenny Pickett and the quarterback situation heading into NFL Week 18 against the Baltimore Ravens. Did Pickett refuse the backup role to Mason Rudolph last week at Seattle as some media have reported? Where does he go from here now that coach Mike Tomlin has chosen Rudolph instead for a must-win game for the team's playoff hopes? And how do Pickett's teammates regard him in the locker room? Our duo tackles those questions and also ponders which players the Ravens will rest, having already clinched the No. 1 seed. Will Lamar Jackson play at all? And if not, will other key names including Zay Flowers, Odell Beckham Jr. and Kyle Hamilton join him on the bench? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers' insider to break down the team's NFL Week 17 victory against the Seahawks in Seattle. Why did the game plan by offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner and play caller Mike Sullivan work so well for playmakers including Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, George Pickens and Diontae Johnson? Did Mason Rudolph prove his success was not a fluke playing in place of the injured Kenny Pickett? And how does the Steelers' playoff path look as they jockey for position with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts? 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 17 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Did Mason Rudolph maintain his momentum from his first start against the Bengals in place of the injured Kenny Pickett? Were Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt able to keep the banged up defense on course? Did George Pickens have another huge effort? And did Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren find holes in the running game? The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the conclusion of the game on FOX. A replay of the show will be available immediately after the live show ends. 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 discuss the Steelers QB situation heading into their NFL Week 17 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks. Should coach Mike Tomlin be considering next season at all when choosing between Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph for this game? How much could Pickett realistically change perceptions by getting healthy and playing well in the last two games? And is Mason Rudolph possibly playing for a job as the No. 2 QB next season? Our duo tackles those questions, sizes up the Steelers' place in the AFC playoff race, previews Penn State's matchup with Ole Miss in the Peach Bowl and ponders all of the opt-outs across college football this bowl season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.