The North Shore Drive

It's the most wonderful time of year. No, it's not Christmas. It's the WPIAL football championships, with finals in Class 4A and Class 6A slated for Saturday at Pine-Richland. After analyzing the ramifications of the PIAA biennial realignment on football conferences, our Post-Gazette High School insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White delve into the matchups as McKeesport and running back Kemon Spell, who have been to the finals each of the last two years, hope to avenge a 2023 finals loss to the Quips, who have been bolstered by the return of quarterback Marques Council. In the Class 6A final, familiar foes meet as defending champion Central Catholic once again squares off with North Allegheny. They then look deeply at the Friday slate of eight semifinal matchups in Class 1A, Class 2A, Class 3A and Class 5A, featuring rematches from the regular season from Western Hills Conference foes Avonworth-North Catholic and Peters Township-Upper St. Clair from the Allegheny Six. As a bonus, they look at the PIAA Class 1A game featuring Westinghouse and District 5 champion Meyersdale 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 FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter welcomes enterprise reporter Noah Hiles to sort through the team's NFL Week 10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Is 41-year-old QB Aaron Rodgers hitting a wall after his rough performance? Or did he just have a bad night? And what does he need to do to be more productive with his pass catchers. DK Metcalf in particular after his own quiet night. But also depth options including Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith? Our duo tackles those topics, then talks defense. Are the changes coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin have made in the past couple of weeks working? From shifting Jalen Ramsey to safety to deploying James Pierre more at corner alongside Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay and Brandin Echols? And will T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Payton Wilson, Patrick Queen, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig have more answers with a rematch against the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals looming in Week 11? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap the team's NFL Week 10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. What went wrong for QB Aaron Rodgers? Why wasn't he able to find a rhythm with receiver DK Metcalf? Or other pass catches including Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington or Jonnu Smith for that matter? How encouraged should we be by Jaylen Warren's performance on the ground? Why couldn't T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig and the defense generate any turnovers against Justin Herbert, Ladd McConkey, Kimani Vidal and the loaded Chargers offense? And how did Jalen Ramsey look in his second game at safety alongside DBs such as Darius Slay, Joey Porter Jr. and Kyle Dugger? 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.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise react LIVE to the Steelers' NFL Week 10 Sunday Night Football matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. Which QB in the matchup was better? Aaron Rodgers or Justin Herbert? Were Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Kyle Dugger able to slow talented Chargers receivers Ladd McConkey, Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston? How did Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Payton Wilson, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon deal with the potent Chargers running game? And were Steelers pass catchers DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith able to find space? Our duo tackles those questions, as well as the performance of coaches including Mike Tomlin, OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin. 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 episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko chart the progress of the Steelers' offensive line. How much progress have young linemen Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu, Broderick Jones, Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson made so far in 2025? Can they become a strength of the offense moving forward? Protect QB Aaron Rodgers enough to get the ball out to playmakers like DK Metcalf? And pave the way for RBs Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson? Our duo tackles those questions, then previews the NFL Week 10 matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium, as coach Mike Tomlin's team looks to slow down a potent offense led by Justin Herbert, Quentin Johnston and Keenan Allen. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley break down the week in Pirates news as MLB hot stove and free agency season looms. This show is presented by FanDuel. What should we make of GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly deciding to move on from long-time prospects Ji-Hawn Bae and Liover Peguero? Will they be missed, or had their time for a new home come? What does Ryan Harbin's addition to the 40-man roster mean? And is Eugenio Suaraz a name Cherington should consider in free agency? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of their PG Pitt Show, Post-Gazette Panthers insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable preview the second game of the season Friday against Longwood. Can coach Jeff Capel draw more consistency out of F Papa Kante? Will the Panthers limit their turnovers this time out after struggling in that area against Youngstown State? And can Barry Dunning Jr. produce more? Our duo tackles those questions, then turns to football. What is the ACC title game path for Pat Narduzzi, Desmond Reid, Mason Heintechel and the Panthers among the numerous tiebreaker scenarios in the ACC? And what are Stephen and Abby's picks for some crucial conference clashes this week: Wake Forest vs. Virginia and Louisville vs. Cal? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Los Angeles Chargers radio broadcast Francisco Pinto to preview the teams' Sunday Night Football matchup in NFL Week 10. This show is presented by FanDuel. Will injuries to key players including Omarion Hampton and Joe Alt slow coach Jim Harbaugh's team down? Especially against Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Joey Porter Jr., Payton Wilson and a Steelers defense fresh off forcing six turnovers against the Indianapolis Colts? Or can Justin Herbet, Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey and the potent passing game do more than enough to keep up with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the Steelers offense? Our duo tackles those questions; the Steelers offensive line's chances against a potent Chargers pass rush led by Tuli Tuipulotu; and the possibility that GM Omar Khan could opt to sign former Chargers CB Asante Samuel 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 Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo give their practice report ahead of an NFL Week 10 matchup with the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. How much credit do coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin deserve for adjusting to a simplified defenses for the win against the Colts? With safeties Jabrill Peppers, DeShon Elliott and Chuck Clark out injured? Did it help Kyle Dugger's integration into the defense? And could similar adjustments help T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Payton Wilson and Alex Highsmith this week as they face a tough challenge from Justin Herbert, Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey and the potent Chargers passing attack? Our duo tackles those questions; emphasizes the need to slow the Chargers' running game; and checks in on Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense as they look to extend drives. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise to ponder Penn State football's future in the Big Ten landscape amid Indiana's meteoric rise with the two teams facing off this weekend. This show is presented by FanDuel. Are the second-ranked Hoosiers a short-term flash in the pan under coach Curt Cignetti? Or are they here to stay beyond 2025? Do they have the resources to challenge the Nittany Lions on the field in the years to come? Or will they revert into something closer to their historical also-ran status in the Big Ten? And what's the importance of Terry Smith, Ethan Grunkemeyer, Kaytron Allen and Dani Dennis-Sutton managing an upset this weekend at the program level? Our duo tackles those questions; the possibility that Curt Cignetti could still be an option in the Penn State coaching search to replace James Franklin; and the viability of other candidates including Texas A&M's Mike Elko, Vanderbilt's Clark Lea and Georgia Tech's Brent Key. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise to take stock of Pitt football's ACC title and College Football Playoff chances following a big win against Stanford. This show is presented by FanDuel. Is a conference title starting to feel like a real possibility after stumbles from Miami and Georgia Tech this past weekend? If Pitt is able to beat those teams plus Notre Dame in its final three games, does it have a viable CFP path as an at-large if ACC tiebreakers don't go the Panthers' way? Do coach Pat Narduzzi and OC Kade Bell have some depth in the running game now with the emergence of Ja'Kyrian Turner behind Desmond Reid? And how good can this defense be with Kyle Louis back healthy and Rasheem Biles trending in that direction? 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 Thursday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise to analyze reports that free agent CB Asante Samuel Jr. will visit the Steelers next week. Would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin securing a deal with the veteran make up for their quiet NFL trade deadline? Or would it still be reasonable for fans to want to see more new faces beyond Kyle Dugger and Marquez Valdes-Scantling? What are the chances Sameul ever arrives here considering broad interest in him from teams around the league? If the Steelers miss out, will they regret not adding a CB next to Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr.? And what should we make of reports saying Khan was close to completing a deal for Jakobi Meyers or another WR to pair with DK Metcalf as a weapon for Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles those questions and takes stock of the Steelers' place in the AFC pecking order. Were the wins against the Colts and Patriots flukes because of the many turnovers generated in those games? And what will it say about this team if it can win in NFL Week 10 against the Los Angeles Chargers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise analyzes the Steelers' defense ahead of its NFL Week 10 matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Have coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin made enough adjustments for the defense to perform better against a potent passing attack led by Justin Herbert and Ladd McConkey than it did against Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and the Bengals? Or Jordan Love, Tucker Kraft and the Packers? Will Jalen Ramsey's move to safety continue to pay off? How much pressure can he and new acquisition Kyle Dugger take off corners like Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr.? And will the rush continue to get home with names like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Payton Wilson, Nick Herbig and others? Paul 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 this episode of their Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, Post-Gazette insider Abby Schnable and former Panthers player Cat Flood take a look at everything surrounding the team after last weekend's breezy win over Duke and their victory in a five-set battle with North Carolina. Will the Panthers be better prepared for the postseason after dealing with all of these close, five-set matches? Olivia Babcock finished with 45 kills against the Tar Heels, breaking the program record she set just two weeks prior vs. Louisville, but is Pitt relying on her too much? Who could step up as a consistent No. 2 hitter for the Panthers? And how much does it help the Panthers that players like Ryla Jones and Mallorie Meyer are coming into their own? 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.

On their weekly Penn State football podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado to sort through the team's recurring issues in the wake of the loss to Ohio State. Did James Franklin whiff harder on hiring Andy Kotelnicki as OC or Jim Knowles as DC? On the offensive side, why is Kotelnicki so devoted to gimmicky plays without Tyler Warren still on the roster? Has Drew Allar been exonerated by the offense's continuing struggles without him? Are receivers Trebor Pena, Kyron Hudson and Devote Ross this bad? Or is the vertical passing game they're playing in just poorly conceived by their coordinator? And what can we make of Ethan Grunkemeyer's performance in this offense so far? On the defensive side of the ball, was Knowles just too much of a philosophical shift from Tom Allen and Manny Diaz? Why haven't Dani Dennis-Sutton, Zane Durant and Zuriah Fisher had more success up front? Were they overrated? Or has Knowles misused them? And why didn't Knowles have better solutions for Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith and the Buckeyes offense he was so familiar with, having coached alongside it last season? Our duo tackles those questions, then briefly previews this week's matchup with second-ranked Indiana at Beaver Stadium. 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 FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to react to the team's lack of moves at the NFL trade deadline. How good is GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin's roster as constituted? Can it win a playoff game? Beat top teams like Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs? Josh Allen and the Bills? Lamar Jackson and the Ravens? Should Khan have been more aggressive in adding a wide receiver for Aaron Rodgers to supplement DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Jonnu Smith, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth? Or was the price for a guy like Jakobi Meyers too high for a team in the Steelers' position? And would it have been nice to add a DB to help Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr., Kyle Dugger and Joey Porter Jr. amid the secondary's intermittent struggles? Our duo tackles those questions, plus NFL draft options now that we know the team could have up to a dozen picks this coming spring. Should they try to build a deeper roster around names like Ohio Stat3e stars Carnell Tate or Caleb Downs? Or should they sell out to grab a QB like Alabama's Ty Simpson, Oregon's Dante Moore or Indiana's Fernando Mendoza? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the Steelers' moves -- or lack thereof -- at the NFL trade deadline. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin properly balance the team's present with its future? Especially with numerous extra NFL draft picks in hand with the event coming to Pittsburgh? Did they secure enough help for the struggling secondary around names like Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Kyle Dugger, Darius Slay Jr. and Brandin Echols? Does Aaron Rodgers now have enough pass-catching help alongside names like DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington, Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth? And how much can the acquisition of Marquez Valdes-Scantling bolster the group? Paul tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their latest Pirates offseason podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette insiders Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley talk Paul Skenes being nominated as a Cy Young finalist as well as the Dodgers' World Series win this past week. How has Skenes' game evolved over the past couple of years to now put him in position to win the award as the National League's best pitcher? What impact could the big Fall Classic audience have on labor talks this offseason? Are the Dodgers' business practices of spending a lot to win good or bad for baseball? Especially viewed through the lens of owner Bob Nutting, GM Ben Cherington, manager Don Kelly and how they run the Pirates? And what did we learn about the Pirates' minor league system this year? With top prospects including Konnor Griffin, Bubba Chandler, Edward Florentino, Yonleg Gaetano and Esmerlyn Valdez? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Pitt basketball podcast, Post-Gazette Panthers insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable react to the team's season-opening win against Youngstown State. Has Jeff Capel's team improved its rebounding from last season? Can the rash of turnovers be rectified? Why were Brandin Cummings, Nojus Indrusaitis and Papa Kante among the biggest standouts? And what are reasonable expectations for this team in the ACC this season? Is a March Madness appearance possible? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the defensive front seven's impact on the Week 9 victory against the Indianapolis Colts. Why were T.J. Watt and Payton Wilson Ray's two most impactful players? Has Wilson arrived as a do-everything linebacker within coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Did his stellar outing help T.J. Watt be more disruptive? And to what degree can Watt and Cam Heyward be unlocked when names like Derrick Harmon, Joey Porter Jr., Alex Highsmith, Keeanu Benton and others are performing at a high level as well? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks about the secondary. Was the success in zone against the Colts repeatable? Or will opponents force the Steelers to prove they can stop them in man coverage? Will Jalen Ramsey stay at safety amid DeShon Elliott's injury? What would that mean for corners like Darius Slay Jr. and Brandin Echols? And other safeties including Kyle Dugger, Juan Thornhill and Jabrill Peppers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise ponders the Steelers' options ahead of the NFL trade deadline Tuesday. This show is presented by FanDuel. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be aggressive in making moves after their team took down one of the NFL's best in Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts? Should they look to give QB Aaron Rodgers another weapon alongside DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith or Darnell Washington? Or would another pass catcher not receive enough targets in OC Arthur Smith's offense to be worthwhile? And does this defense still need another DB next to Jalen Ramsey, Kyle Dugger, Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr.? Or did the win against the Colts ease concern about the secondary? Paul 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 podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the NFL Week 9 victory against the Indianapolis Colts. Can T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Jalen Ramsey and coach Mike Tomlin's defense repeat their dominance of Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor, Tyler Warren at the potent Colts offense? Or will they backslide like they have at times earlier this season? Why was stopping the run with names like Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson they key to getting pressure on Jones and forcing him into turnovers generated by the likes of Jack Sawyer and Joey Porter Jr.? And what impact did new acquisition Kyle Dugger have on the game? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth, Cavlin Austin III, Darnell Washington and OC Arthur Smith's offense can improve after they scored enough points to win but miss capitalizing on some opportunities. 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 WPIAL and City League football podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Mike White and Keith Barnes ponder the first week of playoff action and what comes next. What was good - and not-so-good? The turnaround stories with New Castle, Frazier, Chartiers-Houston, and Apollo-Ridge continued. Among the big games this week is Thomas Jefferson vs. McKeesport in a battle of running backs, Kemon Spell of McKeesport and Tyler Eber of Thomas Jefferson. It's also a rematch of last year's WPIAL championship. It's Aliquippa and New Castle - again. Can the return of Aliquippa QB Marques Council mean a return trip to the title game for the Quips? Plus, Mike and Keith predict the winners of every playoff game. 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 reacts to the team's NFL Week 9 victory against the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. Why do linebackers T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Payton Wilson deserve the most credit for the defense's dominant day, which included six forced turnovers against Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor, Tyler Warren and a Colts offense that entered the game producing at a historic pace? Was the offense a concern in gaining less than 300 yards? Or did Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth prove how dangerous they can be if other teams make mistakes? Did Kyle Dugger show how valuable he can be to this defense in his Steelers debut at safety? And what moves might GM Omar Khan have up his sleeve before the NFL trade deadline? Could he add a No. 2 receiver? Or did Sunday prove that there's not much room for another big name beyond Metcalf in this tight end-heavy offense? 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.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise react LIVE to the Steelers' NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. Were Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr., Brandin Echols and new acquisition Kyle Dugger able to improve in pass defense against the potent Colts attack led by Daniel Jones, Michael Pittman, Tyler Warren and Alex Pierce? How did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and Keeanu Benton manage in run defense against explosive back Jonathan Taylor? And were Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and the offense able to keep up with one of the hottest offenses in the NFL? 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 Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 35-20 win over Stanford on Saturday afternoon, with Stephen reporting from Stanford Stadium in California. How big of an impact did All-American Kyle Louis make for the Panthers after missing a few games due to injury? Did Pat Narduzzi's defense show how good it can be against tougher opposition than the Cardinal? How should we grade freshman QB Mason Heintschel's performance, during which he threw for over 300 yards but also turned the ball over carelessly four times? Did Ja'Kyrian Turner step up in Desmond Reid's absence? And where does Pitt fit into the ACC race? Can the Panthers challenge for a spot in the title game? 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.

Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Penn State insider Lyle Alenstein is joined by Joel Haas to break down the Nittany Lions' 38-14 loss to Ohio State on Saturday afternoon in Columbus, Ohio. Did this game go about as we should've expected it to? Are there any positives to glean from the first half, when the free-falling Nittany Lions went into the intermission only down three points? How has Terry Smith done with the team since becoming interim head coach? Has Ethan Grunkemeyer shown he can be the quarterback of the future? And where does Penn State go from here with offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki? 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.

On the Saturday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko rank the team's defensive backs by confidence level. Does Jalen Ramsey still belong on top within coach Mike Tomlin's defense despite some issues in recent weeks? Is Joey Porter Jr. still the obvious No. 2? Should Brandin Echols rank ahead of Darius Slay Jr.? Even as the latter makes big money? And how should we sort through safety options like Juan Thornhill, Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger amid DeShon Elliott's injury? Our duo tackles those questions, then pivots to previewing the NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium? Are Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor, Tyler Warren, Michael Pittman and Co. as dangerous as they've looked through the first half of the season? Or do they belong in the AFC's second tier alongside Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth and the Steelers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their latest Pirates offseason podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette insiders Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley analyze the club's bullpen and options for it this offseason for GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly. Is Dennis Santana a viable long-term replacement for David Bednar at closer? Can new pitching coach Bill Murphy help Colin Holderman? And how should the front office consider adding to a group that also includes names like Isaac Mattson, Carmen Mlodzinski and Dauri Moreta? Our duo tackles those questions, then reacts to Derek Shelton being hired as the Minnesota Twins' new manager. 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 FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to ponder the Steelers' persistent problems at the cornerback position. Does coach Mike Tomlin get too enamored with aging veterans like Patrick Peterson, Donte Jackson, Darius Slay Jr. and Jalen Ramsey? Is he too impressed by past accomplishments compared to present-day ability? And will ever figure out how to develop young corners like Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr. and others through the years to their full potential? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes the remaining schedule and the Steelers' chances of making the playoffs. Can Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward generate enough wins against teams like the Bills, Lions, Colts, Chargers and Ravens to make the NFL playoffs? Or are they more likely than not to miss the tournament? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's South Side facility ahead of an NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. They have the latest on Kyle Dugger's arrival with the team after he was acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots earlier this week. Could we see him in uniform this week? Will he be able to help Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Juan Thornhill in a beleaguered Steelers secondary that's missing DeShon Elliott? And can he help the team solve its yards after the catch problem when facing a tough Colts passing game that includes names like Daniel Jones, Michael Pittman, Tyler Warren and Alec Pierce? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to discuss the recent firings of Brian Kelly at LSU and Billy Napier at Florida and how they might impact Penn State football's coaching search for a James Franklin replacement. This show is presented by FanDuel. Do those two schools have more attractive jobs than Penn State does? And could that perception impact AD Pat Kraft's ability to land his top choice or choices? And should Penn State consider Kelly as a replacement given his track record of consistent winning? Or has his act worn thin in too many previous stops? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the weekend matchup with Ohio State. Could coach Terry Smith, QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, RB Kaytron Allen and DE Dani Dennis-Sutton lead this team to a shocking upset? And how closely should Penn State be looking at Buckeyes OC Brian Harline for their top job given the success of young assistants like Dan Lanning and Kenny Dillingham? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to analyze Pitt's key ACC game at Stanford. This show is presented by FanDuel. Is this a sneaky big game for coach Pat Narduzzi and the Panthers? With ranked matchups against Georgia Tech, Notre Dame and Miami looming? Could the West Coast travel be an issue in Pitt's first game against such a distant conference opponent? How important was it to see QB Mason Heintschel bounce back from struggles against Syracuse to deliver a solid performance against NC State? What does that resilience say about him moving forward? And how much credit does OC Kade Bell deserve for the turnaround with Heintscel? To what extent have the offense's problems from earlier this season with Eli Holstein at QB been absolved? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Indianapolis-area radio host Kent Sterling to preview the NFL Week 9 matchup with the Colts at Acrisure Stadium. They ponder reasons why Jonathan Taylor, Daniel Jones, Michael Pittman and the Colts offense has been so effective during the team's 7-1 start; possible ways Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Derrick Harmon, Patrick Queen and coach Mike Tomlin's defense may be able to slow that group down; and options QB Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth and OC Arthur Smith's offense will have to put up points against the Colts defense. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the Steelers trade for New England Patriots safety Kyle Dugger. This show is presented by FanDuel. Will he prove to be the missing piece in coach Mike Tomlin's struggling secondary? How will he fit alongside names like Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr., Juan Thornhill and Jabrill Peppers? And what will his role be if injured safety DeShon Elliott is able to return to the lineup after his injury scare? Paul tackles those questions and more ahead of an NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium, in which Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the Steelers offense will have to keep pace with Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman as explosive counterparts. 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, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado preview the weekend matchup with Ohio State through the lens of AD Patrick Kraft's coaching search to replace James Franklin. Could Buckeyes OC Brian Hartline be auditioning for the job in this matchup? Does he have enough coaching experience to take over in Happy Valley? And could he bring premier receivers like Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson, Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka and Jaxson Smith-Njigba into the fold? How would he pair with current Penn State DC Jim Knowles, who won a national championship in the same role last season in Columbus? And do the QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, RB Kayton Allen and interim OC Terry Smith have any shot at an upset against the nation's No. 1 team this week? Our duo tackles those questions, plus Brian Kelly's firing at LSU and the start of hoops season for coach Mike Rhoades and star recruit Kayden Mingo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this clip from the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to assess the team's linebackers amid their inconsistency. Should coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin be getting more from Patrick Queen, who's had major swings in performance over the past month? Or should he still be seen as a high-upside guy considering his young age of 26 for a guy playing on a second contract. Is Payton Wilson's recent surge sustainable? Or could he still regress following struggles earlier in the season? And how does Cole Holcomb fit into the situation for this team ahead of an NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure 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.

On their weekly Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette Panthers insider Abby Schnable welcomes former standout Cat Flood to analyze the week that was for coach Dan Fisher and and key plays such as Olivia Babcock, Brooke Mosher and Blaire Bayless. How were the Panthers able to overcome the absences of names like Dagmar Mourits and Bre Kelley due to injuries? Why is the libero spot still in flux? Has service pressure become a point of strength for this team with NCAA championship aspirations? And how will Pitt manage against the rest of its ACC schedule now that it's in first place? 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 Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to assess the team's situation at wide receiver. Would a name like Marquez Valdes-Scantling -- who's been linked to the Steelers this week -- really make the wide receivers room better? Would OC Arthur Smith even use him or other possible trade targets like Chris Olave or Jaylen Waddle enough next to DK Metcalf? And has the offense improved enough with Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III in support roles for QB Aaron Rodgers and TEs Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith to justify keeping them toward the top of the depth chart? Our duo tackles those questions and whether possible draft capital used in deal ahead of the NFL trade deadline would be better used on a cornerback to help the struggling Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the state of the Steelers' coaching staff following losses to the Bengals and Packers in NFL Weeks 7 and 8, respectively. Should DC Teryl Austin be on the hot seat as his star-studded unit that includes names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith, Jalen Ramsey and Patrick Queen has struggled? Would firing him actually change anything? Or does blame for the unit's performance ultimately rest with coach Mike Tomlin? And what are realistic expectations for a midseason turnaround? Paul tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from coach Mike Tomlin's news conference at the team's South Side facility ahead of an NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. What's the latest on S DeShon Elliott, G Isaac Seumalo and WR Scotty Miller and is it possible we could see them sooner than expected? Will DT Daniel Ekuale be able to return this season after suffering an ACL injury last week against the Green Bay Packers? Is Roman Wilson improving at receiver? And how much value can he add for QB Aaron Rodgers and OC Arthur Smith the rest of the way alongside DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III? And could names like Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Vonn Bell and Eddie Jackson be joining this roster soon? And what kind of challenge do the Colts pose this week with names like QB Daniel Jones, RB Jonathan Taylor, WR Michael Pittman and TE Tyler Warren thriving in OC Jim Bob Cooter's offense? 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 Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley react to the hot topics surrounding the new as the World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers unfolds and key offseason decisions loom. This show is presented by FanDuel. How should fans feel about GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly's hiring of Bill Murphy as pitching coach, replacing Oscar Marin? Can Paul Skenes continue to dominate MLB under Murphy's tutelage? And is he a lock to win the Cy Young award in a few weeks? What should the Pirates do with Mitch Keller this offseason? Keep him in the rotation or trade him for a bat who could help out Bryan Reynolds, Oneil Cruz and others in the lineup? And which young pitchers from the group of Johan Oviedo, Braxton Ashcraft and Mike Burrows will make the rotation? 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 Pitt football insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable tackle the hot topics around the team heading into an important ACC matchup this week at Stanford. This show is presented by FanDuel. What should we make of OC Kade Bell's running back usage last week against NC State? Did Desmond Reid play too long after the game was mostly decided? Should we have seen more of Ja'Kyrian Turner and Juelz Goff? Or did it make sense to keep Reid around to close things out? How much credit does the defense deserve for stepping up despite injuries to names like Rasheem Biles and Kyle Louis? How can coach Pat Narduzzi keep that group on track? And why was QB Mason Heintschel able to bounce back against the Wolfpack following a shaky outing in the previous game against Syracuse? 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 Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the offense's upside as the defense struggles. Can OC Arthur Smith's unit overcome the struggles of the defense to deliver wins? How much more can Smith get out of names like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith, Darnell Washington, Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson? And how much pressure is on Omar Khan to trade for a true No. 2 receiver if offense is the unit that's going to carry coach Mike Tomlin's team to the NFL playoffs? 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.

The field is set for the WPIAL football playoffs, and our high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White say the league's football committee made some head-scratching decisions in the Class 4A bracket. New Castle and Montour tied for a conference championship, so why in the world did the WPIAL put them against each other in the first round of the playoffs? Did Trinity deserve the No. 2 seed?Central Catholic, Pine-Richland, McKeesport, Avonworth, Seton LaSalle and Fort Cherry are the No. 1 seeds. Will they all end up as champions? Seton LaSalle's Kymarr Freeman and Burrell's Antonio Perkins are this week's "Shining Stars," and Keith and Mike play remember when with the most memorable playoff games they ever witnessed. 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 FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to an NFL Week 8 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium. Was captain Cam Heyward right to call out his unit after it was dominated by Packers QB Jordan Love and TE Tucker Kraft? How can coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin fix the group, with fans holding high expectations of names like T.J. Watt, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Nick Herbig, Patrick Queen and others? And how can the secondary specifically -- led by veterans Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr. -- step up its game. Especially in potential absence of injured S DeShon Elliott? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's NFL Week 8 matchup with the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium. Why did did the secondary -- led by Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Jalen Ramsey -- struggle so badly against QB Jordan Love, TE Tucker Kraft and the Packers passing game? Where was the pressure from T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon and others as they failed to generate a sack for a second consecutive game? How should we grade QB Aaron Rodgers, WRs DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson and TEs Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington in the passing game? And why was RB Jaylen Warren able to have success on the ground? 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.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Noah Hiles react LIVE to the Steelers' NFL Week 8 Sunday Night Football matchup with the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium. How did QB Aaron Rodgers perform against his long-time team? Was he able to put up points with offensive personnel including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Jonnu Smith, Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson and Kenneth Gainwell? Or were Micah Parsons and the Packers defense able to keep him in check? Who won the coaching matchup between Mike Tomlin and Matt LaFleur? How did DBs Jalen Ramsey, DeShon Elliott, Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay Jr. hold up in a tough matchup against Jordan Love after a rough outing against the Bengals? And how much pressure were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Patrick Queen, Derrick Harmon and Nick Herbig able to generate? 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 Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 53-34 win over NC State on Saturday, during which freshman QB Mason Heintschel threw for over 400 yards and three touchdowns. What led to Heintschel's stellar performance, and how far can the true freshman take them? Are they contenders in the ACC? What led the offense to have such a major bounce back after a disappointing outing against Syracuse last weekend? How can the wide receivers trio of Kenny Johnson, Blue Hicks and Poppi Williams Jr. keep up this production? And how did the defense, led by guys in new spots like Kavir Bains-Marquez and Cameron Lindsey, fare without All-American candidates like Kyle Louis and Rasheem Biles? 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.

On the Saturday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko ponder which defensive problems the Steelers most need to fix ahead of an NFL Week 8 matchup with the Green Bay Packers. Are coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin too focused on stopping the run compared to the pass? How can they get DBs including Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr., Joey Porter Jr. and others on track when facing a tough matchup against QB Jordan Love? And where do front seven members like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton and others fit into that equation? Our duo tackles those questions, plus Aaron Rodgers' matchup with his former team. How many points will he be able to put up with options including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith surrounding him? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley continue their series of podcasts looking back on the 2025 season and forward at moves GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly could make to improve. Did Henry Davis become good enough defensively to overcome his offensive shortcomings? Should Joey Bart have a role on this team as a struggling defender? And where do Endy Rodriguez and Rafael Flores fit into the future at the position? The guys ponder those questions as well as the DH spot, where Andrew McCutchen's future looms large. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.