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

On their weekly Penn Stare football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Seth Engle preview the Peach Bowl matchup with Ole Miss in Atlanta. Who needs this game more to shed their reputation for coming up small in big games? The Nittany Lions' James Franklin or the Rebels' Lane Kiffin? Will we see players with NFL aspirations like Theo Johnson, Olu Fashanu, Kalen King and Johnny Dixon? And if so, how much? Do Drew Allar, Nick Singleton, Kaytron Allen and the offense need to show explosiveness like they did at Michigan State to build confidence for next season? And does this defense need a dominant effort to prove it's one of the best defenses in Penn State history? Our duo tackles those questions and some bowl season developments. Is Penn State on the verge of landing former Ohio State receiver Julian Fleming in the transfer portal? What first impressions did new defensive coordinator Tom Allen give in his introductory news conference? And what does Tyler Warren's return mean for the tight end room and the offense as a whole? 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 and former Steelers offensive lineman Trai Essex to break down the state of the franchise heading into Week 17. Is Mike Tomlin handling the team’s quarterback situation with Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett the right way? Also, Trai gives his insights on the progress and needs of the Steelers’ offensive line. Later, the duo discusses how Pittsburgh’s has defense maintained with all of the injuries this season, especially to their linebacker corps. The guys look ahead to the Steelers' NFL Week 17 matchup on the road at the Seattle Seahawks as well, another game that may well again decide their playoff fate. For more sports, visit post-gazette.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko joins host Adam Bittner to analyze the team's quarterback situation heading into NFL Week 17 against the Seattle Seahawks. Will Kenny Pickett be healthy enough to play this weeK? Or will Mason Rudolph continue to get starter's reps all week? Is it possible that Tomlin will keep Pickett's status murky in the event he wants to use Rudolph this week, so as not to create any more controversy? Or will he declare Rudolph his preference if both are healthy enough to play? Our duo tackles those questions, the injury status of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Elandon Roberts and the Steelers' playoff chances in a loaded AFC that still has the Texans, Jaguars, Colts and Bills all in the hunt for the conference's final playoff spots. 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 mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter look back that the year that was in 2023. What was the Panthers' biggest win of 2023? Was the Backyard Brawl loss to West Virginia in football their worst loss? Is Blake Hinson the athlete of the year for helping coach Jeff Capel and the basketball team get back to March Madness? And what accolades do the top ranked women's volleyball and soccer teams earn? 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 Sunday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo break down the team's NFL Week 16 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Should Mason Rudolph's performance allow him to keep the starting quarterback job even if Kenny Pickett is healthy? How did the defense hold the Bengals to 11 point despite the absences of key playmakers including Minkah Fitzpatrick, Damontae Kazee, Elandon Roberts, Cole Holcomb and Kwon Alexander? And has speculation that coach Mike Tomlin has lost the locker room been overblown amid effort issues with players including George Pickens in recent weeks? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 16 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. How did Mason Rudolph fare in his first start this season, a possible last chance to prove he can lead an offense? How did the defense look without Damontae Kazee and Minkah Fitzpatrick in the secondary? How did George Pickens respond to a tumultuous week filled with questions about his effort level? And did Mike Tomlin quiet any of his growing number of critics? The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the conclusion of the game on NBC. 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.

Post-Gazette sports editor and fantasy football columnist Chris Dell joins host Tony Squares to break down all things Steelers-Bengals for Saturday’s 4:30 p.m. game, as well as talk about their top fantasy football players to start, sit and stream for Week 16 on our new "Steel City Sleepers" show.Can Pat Freiermuth be trusted in starting lineups after having his best game of the season against Cincinnati in Week 12?Is the Steelers’ ground game due for another big game against a below-average Bengals run defense?And will the Seahawks D/ST be a worthy top-10 defense to stash for Week 17 vs. the Steelers?Visit the fantasy football page on our Post-Gazette website for all of Chris' weekly content, including his 'Fantasy Favorites Manifesto' flagship column (also printed in our Sunday newspaper) and his ‘Fantasy Fallout’ waiver wire strategy column, published every Tuesday.If you haven’t already, subscribe to our @PGSportsNow YouTube channel to avoid missing future videos from our sports reporters, columnists and their special guests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to break down the Pirates re-signing outfielder Andrew McCutchen and what it means for the franchise.Also, who will the team feature at catcher in 2024? And what type of starting pitcher should the Pirates add for next season?Our duo also breaks down their favorite moves so far this offseason and discusses who will end up seeing time in right field.If you haven’t already, subscribe to the sports department’s YouTube channel so you don’t miss a video with our reporters, columnists and their special guests.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 host Adam Bittner to discuss the roles of current general manager Omar Khan and former GM Kevin Colbert in the Steelers' recent struggles. Should they share some blame with coach Mike Tomlin? Should three years of ugly NFL draft results from 2020-22 stain Colbert's legacy in Pittsburgh? Did Khan do as well in free agency this year as many people believed? And was it ever reasonable to expect a roster with only few contributors from three years worth of drafts -- a small group that includes Alex Highsmith, George Pickens and Kenny Pickett -- to be of playoff caliber? Our duo tackles those topics as well as the Pirates signings of Martin Perez and Andrew McCutchen; Penn State coach James Franklin's hiring of former Indiana coach Tom Allen as defensive coordinator; and Riverhounds SC's prominent role in the growing fissures between MLS and the USL Championship regarding the future of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. 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 Steelers insider Brian Batko to analyze receiver George Pickens' controversial comments to reporters Tuesday. Is Pickens capable of maturing and taking accountability for valid questions about his effort? Or do the comments prove that his attitude will always be an issue for the Steelers and coach Mike Tomlin? Later, the duo reacts to T.J. Watt's comments about how the team is practicing, breaks down the fairness of the Damontae Kazee suspension after the NFL banned him for the rest of the year after his hit on the Indianapolis Colts' Michael Pittman Jr. on Saturday. And the guys look ahead to the Steelers' NFL Week 16 matchup with the division rival Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium, a game that may well decide their postseason fate. 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 react to coach James Franklin's hiring of former Indiana coach Tom Allen as defensive coordinator. Is he the right guy to maintain the momentum Manny Diaz had built for the unit? ANd are there valid concerns with how his Hoosier defenses have played in recent years? Our duo tackles those questions, the official introduction of Andy Kotelnicki as offensive coordinator, the NFL draft prospect of Penn State players including Olu Fashanu, Kalen King and Theo Johnson, plus the recruiting class that Franklin's program will sign this week. Is the 17th-ranked group good enough to help the Nittany Lions get over the top? And is it a concern that their incoming receivers are ranked fairly low after Penn State struggled at the position this past season? 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 break down the Pirates signings of outfielder Andrew McCutchen and Martin Perez in the last 24 hours. Can McCutchen still produce over a whole season? How long might his second act with the club last? And how does Perez fit into the rotation alongside the recently acquired Marco Gonzales? Our duo tackles those questions and also looks ahead to what's next. Could there and should there be another move for a starting pitcher coming? Is it reasonable to expect such a pitcher to be a No. 2 behind Mitch Keller? And how do young players including Roansy Contreras, Quinn Priester and Paul Skenes fit into pitch plans for the years ahead? 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 break down hot topics around the team. How has Sidney Crosby's new role on the left flank helped the power play? What should we make of Valtteri Puustinen's first extended look in the NHL? And should we be concerned about Ryan Graves' slow start? 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 NBC Sports analyst Devin McCourty to discuss hot topics around the team. How will Mason Rudolph look with his latest chance at quarterback if Kenny Pickett remains too injured to play? What direction should Mike Tomlin go with his next offensive coordinator hire and why does McCourty believe it needs to be outside his "comfort zone"? And did the NFL go too far in suspending safety Damontae Kazee for the season after his illegal hit in the loss Saturday against the 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.

In their weekly Pitt football mailbag, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter answer reader questions. Among them: What grade should coach Pat Narduzzi get from his incoming recruiting class, and what kind of impact is reasonable to expect? Which players will have a chance to see the field most often in 2024? Could there be any late additions to the class? And how have Pitt's early efforts in the transfer portal gone? Considering they've added names including Kansas State's Nate Matlack and Indiana's Nick James as well as Western Carolina's Desmond Reid and CJ Lee, who both worked with new offensive coordinator Kade Bell. 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 Mike Tomlin's standing in the organization after a third consecutive loss in NFL Week 15 against Indianapolis. Is the veteran coach safe no matter what because of the way owner Art Rooney II values stability? Could an 0-3 finish to the season actually change Rooney's perspective? And how does effort level from important pieces like George Pickens and Diontae Johnson factor into the decision?Our duo tackles those topics, the team's awful quarterback play with Mitch Trubisky in the absence of injured starter Kenny Pickett and the defense's many injuries that may prove too much for the unit to overcome. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 15 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts. Is this team essentially out of playoff contention? What should Mike Tomlin's future with the franchise be? And should defensive stars like Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick face scrutiny for their unit's recent failures. The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the conclusion of the game on NFL Network. 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.

Post-Gazette sports editor and fantasy football columnist Chris Dell joins host Tony Squares to break down all things Steelers-Colts for Saturday’s 4:30 p.m. game, as well as talk about their top fantasy football players to start, sit and stream for Week 15 on our new "Steel City Sleepers" show.The guys discuss whether any Steelers are worth starting — let alone rostering — in the fantasy playoffs.Can George Pickens or Diontae Johnson be trusted in any fantasy lineups this weekend?Is the Pittsburgh Steelers defense better off “sabotage-dropping” to the waiver wire?And will Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris ever bounce back statistically in 2023?Visit the fantasy football page on our Post-Gazette website for all of Chris' weekly content, including his 'Fantasy Favorites Manifesto' flagship column (also printed in our Sunday newspaper) and his ‘Fantasy Fallout’ waiver wire strategy column, published every Tuesday.If you haven’t already, also subscribe to our @PGSportsNow YouTube channel to avoid missing future videos from our sports reporters, columnists and their special guests.Chris Dell: [email protected] and Twitter @maddjournalist 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 brought to you by the Acrisure Fan Advantage, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter welcomes Colts radio voice Matt Taylor to preview Saturday's Steelers-Colts matchup. Will this game have the feel of a playoff matchup, with both teams needing a win to stay in the wild card race? Where can the Colts hurt the Steelers? And what are our final predictions for Saturday’s tilt? 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 latest episode of Pitching In presented by North Shore Tavern, Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Michael McKenry discuss the situation at catcher following Endy Rodriguez's season-ending injury. The job has to be No. 1 pick Henry Davis', right? Or is there a signing to be made? Plus they discuss the latest TV deal and Robby Incmikoski not being retained. 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 Steelers' quarterback situation going into 2024. Should they consider trying to draft Heisman Trophy-winning LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels if he's available, as P-G sports columnist Joe Starkey and CBS Sports' Emory Jones have suggested? Should they be in on Justin Fields if the Chicago Bears look to move him in anticipation of drafting Caleb Williams or Drake Maye? Does Kenny Pickett deserve another year to prove himself in an offense not led by fired coordinator Matt Canada? And could veterans like Kirk Cousins or Jameis Winston make sense as backups who could become starters if Pickett struggles? Our duo tackles those topics, then gets into some Pirates and college football talk. Is the club's new TV deal with SportsNet Pittsburgh a good one? What should we make of the trade for pitcher Marco Gonzales and the signing of first baseman Rowdy Tellez? And are Pitt and Penn State better off with the hiring of offensive coordinators Kade Bell and Andy Kotelnicki, respectively? 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 Pirates podcast, Post-Gazette insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to analyze a wave of breaking news from the club. What should we make of the new television deal with SportsNet Pittsburgh and he partnership with the Penguins and Boston Red Sox by extension? Could a new streaming option for both the Pirates and Penguins offset some revenue lost on the cable side? What details did team president Travis Williams share about the deal? And did the Pirates give anything up by passing on using MLB's distribution model? Later, our duo analyzes catcher Endy Rodriguez's injury that will cost him the entire 2024 season. Did the club err in allowing him to play winter ball, putting him in a position to get injured in the first place? What is the plan at catcher now that Rodriguez is injured? Is former No. 1 overall pick Henry Davis prepared to carry the load? And what happens if he's not? Our duo tackles those questions and wraps with some analysis of the Rowdy Tellez signing at first base in MLB free agency. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday 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 team's struggling offense. Who should the unit's leader be in the absence of injured QB Kenny Pickett and fired coordinator Matt Canada? Why have names including Najee Harris, Diontae Johnson and Pat Freiermuth failed to pick up that mantle? They also get into the QB situation. Could it be Mason Rudolph's moment this week if Mitch Trubisky struggles again against the Colts? And what are Brian's predictions for the NFL Week 15 showdown? Our duo tackles all of 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 analyze possible candidates to replace Manny Diaz as Nittany Lions defensive coordinator after he took the head coaching job at Duke last week. Do internal candidates including linebackers coach Anthony Poindexter and Rob Smith make the most sense for coach James Franklin from a continuity perspective? Do recently fired head coaches including Tom Allen and Zach Arnett hold appeal as experienced options? Could Missouri's Blake Baker pick up where Diaz left off as his former DC at Miami? And do names including D'Anton Lynn, Tony Gibson and Jim Leonhard merit any consideration? Our duo tackles those topics and offers perspective on Penn State's recruiting efforts in the transfer portal so far. 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 the NFL Network's Jamie Erdhal to tackle some hot topics surrounding the team. Can Kenny Pickett still find another gear to his game when he returns from injury? Why do national media still love Steelers coach Mike Tomlin despite heavy criticism within the fan base? Could Mason Rudolph replace Mitch Trubisky as the No. 2 QB if Trubisky struggles this in NFL Week 15 against the Indianapolis Colts? And how do the Steelers fit in the AFC North division right now? Is a last-place finish behind the Ravens, Bengals and Browns still possible? 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: What makes newly hired offensive coordinator Kade Bell different from predecessors including Frank Cignetti Jr. and Mark Whipple? Was Bell coach Pat Narduzzi's top choice for the job? And will there be any more changes on the coaching staff this offseason? 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 Andrew Destin and Matt Vensel discuss Matt's exclusive interview with Tom Werner, chairman of the Fenway Sports Group that owns the team. What were his thoughts on roster construction as the team has struggled this season around big names like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson? How involved is FSG in day to day management of hockey operations? And how much confidence does ownership have in general manager Kyle Dubas as he looks to correct mistakes made by previous GM Ron Hextall? 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 coach Mike Tomlin's future. What does he have to do in the remaining weeks of the season to prove he belongs in the team's future? And could owner Art Rooney II and general manager Omar Khan look to trade him in the offseason if things don't turn around?Our duo tackles those questions and also ponders whether Mitch Trubisky or Mason Rudolph should start at quarterback while No. 1 signal caller Kenny Pickett remains out with an injury. 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 Chris Dell joins host Tony Squares to break down all things Steelers-Patriots, as well as their top fantasy football players to start and sit for Week 14 on our new "Steel City Sleepers" show.The guys discuss which Steelers players are worth dropping after their second straight loss to a 2-10 team. They also break down their top five sleepers and busts at each position, including top defensive (D/ST) streamers and kickers for the fantasy playoffs.Are Diontae Johnson and George Pickens better off on your opponents' rosters?Is the Steelers' fantasy D/ST worth dropping after flopping against the Patriots?And is there any fantasy hope for Pittsburgh for the rest of the 2023 season?Visit the fantasy football page on our Post-Gazette website for all of Chris' weekly content, including his 'Fantasy Favorites Manifesto' flagship column (also printed in our Sunday newspaper), and subscribe to our @PGSportsNow YouTube channel to avoid missing future videos from our reporters, columnists and guests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pitching In presented by North Shore Tavern, Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Michael McKenry take a look at the moves (and non-moves) at the Winter Meetings. What makes Marco Gonzales a fit in the starting rotation? And who will ultimately play first base in 2024? 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, Steelers insider Brian Batko joins Christopher Carter to sort through the rubble of Thursday's loss to the Patriots. Is the team now resigned to being a bad football team? And what does the future hold for Mike Tomlin after a historically bad stretch? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' Week 14 matchup with the New England Patriots on Thursday Night Football. How did Mitch Trubisky perform playing in place of injured quarterback Kenny Pickett? Did Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren and the running game maintain their recent momentum? Were receivers Diontae Johnson and George Pickens more involved in the passing game? And how did the defense look navigating nagging injuries to key players including T.J. Watt and Elandon Roberts? Our duo tackles those questions and more. The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the conclusion of the game on Amazon Prime and KDKA-TV locally. 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.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to break down the club's trade with the Atlanta Braves for lefty starter Marco Gonzales at the MLB winter meetings on Tuesday in Nashville. What does Gonzales add to a rotation with few other proven options? Could general manager Ben Cherington make another significant move to upgrade the rotation? Or is this it? Could a top three of Gonzales, Mitch Keller and Paul Skenes be competitive in the NL Central? Or do the Pirates need names like Roansy Contreras, Quinn Priester and others to step up? 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 sports podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Seth Engle discuss the early days of transfer portal moves across college football. Is the Nittany Lions' lack of losses so far an endorsement by players of James Franklin's hiring of Andy Kotelnicki as offensive coordinator? Is Ohio State's loss of Kyle McCord and Julian Fleming to the portal a sign of turmoil in that program after a third straight loss to Michigan? And could Penn State rekindle its relationship with Fleming to bring him to Happy Valley. Our duo tackles those topics and also gets into some bowl talk. Were Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss the best opponents the Lions could hope to draw in the Peach Bowl? Did Penn State deserve its slot in the New Year's Six over programs like Oklahoma? And what does this year's New Year's Six field tell us about next season's first 12-team college football playoff? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, host Christopher Carter welcomes Patriots insider Greg Bedard to preview the Steelers' matchup with their AFC East rival on Thursday Night Football. Is this Patriots defense as tough as the stats indicate? Or will Mitch Trubisky have a chance to play well against it in the absence of the injured Kenny Pickett. What is Bill Belichick's future in New England amid a 2-10 record so far? Is he on the hot seat? Or will his reputation help him as it's helped Steelers coach Mike Tomlin? And can teams like the Steelers and Patriots win with great defenses moving forward in today's NFL? 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 weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, the Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner welcomes former Penn State and Steelers standout Justin King to sort through Diontae Johnson's recent comments about the team's NFL Week 13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. How could a locker room of professionals take that team "lightly" despite its 2-10 record? How much blame does coach Mike Tomlin deserve for that mentality compared to his players? And do Tomlin's bad losses stand out more because of their rarity? Our duo tackles those topics and the defensive communication issues caused by injuries to linebackers Elandon Roberts, Kwon Alexander and Cole Holcomb. Justin also offers his thoughts on the growth of Joey Porter Jr., who he once recruited to Penn State and the team's chances this week on Thursday Night Football against the New England Patriots. 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, why is coach Pat Narduzzi's defense losing so many players -- including vaunted linebacker Bangally Kamara -- from his vaunted defense while the struggling offense has remained mostly intact? Was it more surprising that running back Rodney Hammond Jr. or tight end Gavin Bartholomew chose to return? And does Pitt have the NIL support to chase a top quarterback such as Kyle McCord, Dillon Gabriel or Drew Shapen in the transfer portal this offseason? 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 a power play unit that continues to struggle. Can the addition of defenseman Kris Letang make a difference? Why hasn't general manager Kyle Dubas been able to find more depth with his variety of roster moves lately? And why is a team that includes Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin struggling to hold third-period leads? 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 break do the team's NFL Week 13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals at Acrisure Stadium. Why is the offense such a mess, even after the firing of offensive coordinator Matt Canada? How can the unit navigate the loss of quarterback Kenny Pickett for at least the next couple of weeks? Why did the defense give up so many big plays to the Cardinals, particularly running back James Conner? And can coach Mike Tomlin save the season amid an ever-tightening playoff race in the AFC? 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 editors Adam Bittner and Chris Dell break down the Steelers' 24-10 loss to Arizona. What is their outlook if Kenny Pickett is forced to miss significant time? Why is the offense having so much trouble finishing despite moving the ball more efficiently? How big of a loss is Elandon Roberts for the defense? 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 Saturday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast brought to you by the Acrisure Fan Advantage, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter welcomes Bo Brack of PHNX Sports to preview the Steelers' NFL Week 13 game with the Arizona Cardinals in Pittsburgh. Do Kyler Murray and the Cardinals present a "trap game" on Sunday for the 7-4 Steelers?What matchups can Kenny Pickett exploit through the air in Pittsburgh's new-look offense? Chris and Bo also give their final predictions and discuss the key matchups needed for each team to win. 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 sports editor Chris Dell joins host Tony Squares to break down all things fantasy for Steelers-Cardinals, as well as their top players to start and sit for Week 13 on our new "Steel City Sleepers" show.The guys discuss which Steelers players they're either buying or selling after seeing Pittsburgh’s new-look, Canada-less offense last weekend. They also dish out their top five sleepers and busts at each position, including top defensive (D/ST) streamers and kickers.Is Najee Harris now the better fantasy back to own over Jaylen Warren?Are we buying Pat Freiermuth as a top-10 TE option the rest of the season?And what are the top fantasy playoff strategies we should be employing right now?Visit the Post-Gazette website for Chris' weekly 'Fantasy Favorites Manifesto' flagship column (also printed in our Sunday newspaper) and subscribe to our @PGSportsNow YouTube channel to avoid missing future videos from our reporters, columnists and guests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the latest episode of Pitching In presented by North Shore Tavern, Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Michael McKenry discuss a too-quiet offseason ahead of the Winter Meetings. Should fans be concerned that no one has been signed yet? Plus, they discuss the hiring of Sarah Gelles as an assistant general manager and what it could mean and answer questions about the 2024 payroll. 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 Steelers insider Brian Batko to break down the team's NFL Week 13 matchup with the Arizona Cardinals at Acrisure Stadium. Is this the week Kenny Pickett, Najee Harris, George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and the offense need to show dominance of an inferior opponent? What did interim offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner and play caller Mike Sullivan change after the firing of Matt Canada to produce more yardage in NFL Week 12 against the Bengals? And could these next two games against the Cardinals and Patriots be trap games for the Steelers? 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.

The Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Seth Engle react to Penn State's reported hiring of Andy Kotelnicki as offensive coordinator, replacing Mike Yurcich. Did coach James Franklin make the right choice from a crowded field of candidates? Can the now-former Kansas OC get running backs Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton back on track after they lacked explosiveness in 2023? Is this a good fit for Drew Allar, who showed promise but didn't quite live up to his five-star hype? And could this hire convince possible draft and transfer candidates including KeAndre Lambert-Smith, Theo Johnson and Tyler Warren to remain in Happy Valley for 2024? 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 final episode of the In the Trenches podcast for 2023, Pitt football standouts Jake Kradel and Gavin Bartholomew join host Noah Hiles to look back at the season that was. What were the reasons that the offense was never able to find its stride en route to a 3-9 record? How has the beginning of this offseason been different than in past years, with no bowl game looming and teammates hitting the NCAA transfer portal? How much is NIL influencing transfer portal decisions? And will Gavin return to Pitt for the 2024 season? Our trio 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 and podcast appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to analyze Steelers running back Najee Harris. Is his recent run of solid production a sign he's blooming late like fellow Alabama back Derrick Henry did? Should the Steelers use their fifth-year option on his rookie contract? And does this offense need Harris alongside Jaylen Warren to function at its best? Our duo tackles those questions, takes stock of Pat Narduzzi's job security at Pitt following a 3-9 season, ponders Penn State's looming decision on a new offensive coordinator and wonders when the Pirates will make a move in MLB free agency. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 to discuss Diontae Johnson's lack of hustle Sunday at Cincinnati and a report that the receiver got into an altercation with teammate Minkah Fitzpatrick. Will coach Mike Tomlin hold him accountable for those actions? And is Johnson's conduct becoming a larger problem for the team?Our duo tackles those questions, sizes up the Steelers' chances to beat the Ravens in the AFC North race and ponders the impact the return of Fitzpatrick and Montravius Adams could have on the defense. 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 potential candidates to be the Nittany Lions' offensive coordinator. Does a return for Joe Moorhead make sense after his success with Trace McSorley, Saquon Barkley and Chris Godwin en route to a Big Ten title in 2016? Could James Franklin target a young up-and-comer like UNLV's Brennan Marion? Does Colorado's Sean Lewis deserve a shot in a more stable program? Do other names like Tim Cramsey of Memphis or Mike Denbrock of LSU belong in the conversation? What about recently fired coaches including the Carolina Panthers' Frank Reich or Houston's Dana Holgorsen? Our duo tackles all of those questions and sizes up the rest of the program as it enters bowl season. Can Drew Allar, Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen build on an explosive regular season finale at Michigan State? What does Penn State need to do in the transfer portal when it opens next week? And are there any open head coaching jobs that could appear to defensive coordinator Manny Diaz? 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 the Post-Gazette's retired Hall of Fame beat writer Ed Bouchette to discuss hot topics around the team. Do James Harrison and Hines Ward belong in the Pro Football Hall of Fame after being named semifinalists for induction this week? Did Art Rooney II overstep in the team's firing of Matt Canada as offensive coordinator? And is the growth Kenny Pickett showed in the win against the Bengals this week sustainable? Our duo answers 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.