The North Shore Drive

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.

On the Friday 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 ponder the Steelers' options at the NFL trade deadline amid struggles from the prospective rookie class of QBs in the NFL draft. Should coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan still be hoarding picks to select names like Drew Allar, Arch Manning, Garrett Nussmeier and Cade Klubnik, even as they've struggled to meet expectations? Or should they consider trading some picks for a proven wide receiver for QB Aaron Rodgers to complement his current pass catching options including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? And if they do make a deal, do names like Jaylen Waddle of the Dolphins, Chris Olave of the Saints and Jakobi Meyers of the Raiders make sense? Our duo tackles those topics, plus Rodgers' future with the team past 2025. Could he have longevity within OC Arthur Smith's offense? Or could he wear thin as Russell Wilson did when the team hits the tougher portions of its schedule? 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 Abby Schnable and Stephen Thompson get you ready for the Panthers' matchup with the NC State Wolfpack on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. How can coach Pat Narduzzi and OC Kade Bell get freshman QB Mason Heintschel back on track after a rocky outing against Syracuse? Can the defense survive another game with Rasheem Biles and Kyle Louis injured? Why are CJ Bailey and Hollywood Smothers the names to beware of for the Wolfpack? And what are Stephen and Abby's picks for this game that has sneaky ACC championship and College Football Playoff implications? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In their weekly Pitt football chat, presented by FanDuel, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise to ponder Pitt's outlook amid a slew of injuries to some key players. Can coach Pat Narduzzi and Co. stay in ACC contention without RB Desmond Reid, LB Rasheem Biles and LB Kyle Louis at full strength? Which of those three players is the most valuable? Why hasn't Kade Bell's offense been able to run very well when Reid is off the field? Are opponents starting to notice tendencies with freshman QB Mason Heintschel within OC Kade Bell's offense? And which College Football Playoff contender remaining on their schedule do the Panthers have the best chance to beat? Miami, Georgia Tech or Notre Dame? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In their weekly Penn State football chat, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise ponder how meaningful the Nittany Lions results for the rest of the season will be. Will more struggles under interim coach Terry Smith from OC Andy Kotelnicki and DC Jim Knowles further validate James Franklin's firing as coach? Or has the move given the team permission to lose focus on 2025? Do Ethan Grunkemeyer, Kaytron Allen, Dani Dennis-Sutton and Co. have any hope of upsetting Ryan Day and Ohio State or Curt Cignetti and Indiana? Do Matt Rhule's results at Nebraska for the season matter to his candidacy to replace Franklin? Or will Joe Paterno supporters want him to take over the Lions regardless? And what are the chances under-the-radar names like Pat Fitzgerald, Kliff Kingsbury and Matt Campbell emerge as candidates in the search? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Green Bay Packers legend LeRoy Butler to preview the showdown between the two teams in NFL Week 8 at Acrisure Stadium. Why does LeRoy believe coaches Mike Tomlin and Matt LaFleur could be matching wits again in a Super Bowl rematch of this contest? What does he expect from the QB matchup of Jordan Love vs. Aaron Rodgers and his team of offensive options that includes DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington? Plus defensive stars like Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and Jalen Ramsey? And will Rodgers play with a little extra juice against his former team, as he did when facing Justin Fields and the New York Jets back in Week 1? 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.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the Steelers quarterback situation through the lens of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields struggling elsewhere, with Fields notably drawing criticism this week from his New York Jets owner, Woody Johnson. Do coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan deserve more credit for zeroing in on Aaron Rodgers when he became available this offseason? Could Wilson or Fields have had similar success in Arthur Smith's offense with weapons like DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth around them? And will the ultimate outcome be any different with Rodgers than it might have been with Wilson or Fields in the form of an NFL playoffs victory? Paul tackles those topics and gives his thoughts on the matchup looming Sunday night against the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium. 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 react to the weekend loss to Iowa in the first game since James Franklin's firing. How much was Ethan Grunkemeyer to blame for struggles in his first start at QB in place of the injured Drew Allar? And how much criticism should OC Andy Kotelnicki shoulder? Have Trebor Pena, Kyron Hudson and Devonte Ross already become the most disappointing group of transfer wide receivers yet? What are reasonable expectations for tight end Luke Reynolds? And why has Nick Singleton struggled so much at RB as Kaytron Allen has thrived? Our duo tackles those questions, ponders Jim Knowles future as defensive coordinator; wonders whether Penn State can still make a bowl game; and reacts to Curt Cignetti's extension at Indiana as Penn State looks for a Franklin replacement. 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, Post-Gazette Panthers insider Abby Schnable welcomes former standout Cat Flood to react to a busy weekend of action for the squad. What did we learn about coach Dan Fisher's team after it was able to rally from a steep deficit Friday night against Notre Dame? Does the win over No. 4 Louisville later in the weekend prove this team is still a national title contender? How valuable have Marina Pezelj and Mallorie Meyer proven to be as depth? And is Olivia Babcock the frontrunner for player of the year nationally after her big night against the Fighting Irish and Cardinals? 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 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 analyze the team's offensive line. Are young players like Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick actually improving? Or benefitting from heavy sets that include tight ends like Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith? And better-than-expected mobility from QB Aaron Rodgers? Can Jones and Fautanu take the next steps in their growth and become good NFL tackles before the NFL season ends? Is guard Isaac Seumalo an underrated piece of the group? And how much credit do coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith deserve for the development of McCormick? Our duo tackles those questions, then pivots to the secondary. Who is struggling most in his role right now between Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Jalen Ramsey? Does Brandin Echols deserve more playing time? And how are safeties DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill holding up as GM Omar Khan's answers at the position following the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade? 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 Steelers facility after Tuesday's practice leading up to the team's "Sunday Night Football" matchup with the Green Bay Packers. Can we expect reinforcements at wide receiver, with Calvin Austin III set to return after missing the last two games with a shoulder injury? How does that affect coordinator Arthur Smith's offensive game plan? Is Pat Freiermuth back to producing at a high level along with fellow tight ends Jonnu Smith, Darnell Washington and Connor Heyward? How is Aaron Rodgers continuing to play at such a high level at 41 years old? Can we expect the offense to keep humming with Jaylen Warren and DK Metcalf? And what adjustments can coordinator Teryl Austin make to get the defense led by T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward back on track? 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 season-in-review podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Jason Mackey look at what went right and what went wrong for the infield in 2025. And moves GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly could make to improve it in the year ahead. Was Spencer Horwitz the biggest success story within the group with solid production at first base? Can more be expect of Nick Gonzales at second base? Will Konnor Griffin be an answer at shortstop at the MLB level in 2026? And why might Alec Bohm of the Philadelphia Phillies be among the best third base solutions available on the trade market? 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 a variety of hot topics around the team ahead of a key ACC matchup with North Carolina State on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium. Should fans worry about star running back Desmond Reid after he missed most of the Syracuse win last week because of injury? And how should we interpret coach Pat Narduzzi's comments on the matter? How much longer can Cam Lindsey and Nick Lapi hold out at linebacker with Rasheem Biles and Kyle Louis injured? And what did Abby notice from coach Jeff Capel's men's basketball team in an exhibition against Providence and why does she believe Damarco Minor is a player to watch this coming season? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Heading into the final weekend of the WPIAL football regular season, high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White tell you who should be the top seeds in each classification. Should Aliquippa get one of the two wild card playoffs spots in Class 4A and should Clairton or Fort Cherry get the No. 1 seed in Class 1A? Mohawk's Bobby Fadden is a five-sport athlete who has made WPIAL football history and is one of our Shining Stars. And who wins this week's big games of Westinghouse vs. University Prep (Pittsburgh City League championship), Steel Valley at South Allegheny, Montour at West Allegheny, Washington at Seton LaSalle, California at Jefferson-Morgan and North Catholic at Hopewell. 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 talk about Aaron Rodgers as he prepares to face his former team this week. Is the veteran QB ready for the challenge of taking down the Green Bay Packers in NFL Week 8 at Acrisure Stadium? What will he have to say about his first game as a Packers opponent? Will his comments be similar or different than they were in the lead-up to the NFL Week 1 matchup with the New York Jets, who cut him this offseason? And how will others including coach Mike Tomlin and players like DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and Patrick Queen approach the situation? Our duo tackles those questions, then tight end usage within OC Arthur Smith's offense. How can names like Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington repeat their NFL Week 7 success against the Cincinnati Bengals? And can Rodgers continue to get the ball to Freiermuth in particular for big numbers in the absence of serious WR2 options behind DK Metcalf? 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 analyze changes the defense needs to make ahead of an NFL Week 8 matchup with the Green Bay Packers. What adjustments should coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin make? Particularly in the secondary? Do players including Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Brandin Echols need to be used differently after getting beaten badly by Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins last week? And how can front seven options including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Patrick Queen, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Payton Wilson and others generate more pressure and be better against the run? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponder whether QB Aaron Rodgers is playing his way into another season with the Steelers amid his success with DK Metcalf, Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth, Cavlin Austin III and Jonnu Smith in the passing game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pitt football insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable react to Saturday's road win at Syracuse. Nick Lapi and Cam Lindsey stepped up with leading linebackers Kyle Louis and Rasheem Biles out. But the offensive line was the crux of Pitt's offensive issues (penalties, not great blocking, allowed 7 sacks). It was anything but pretty, but a key play from Kenny Johnson and three interceptions kept momentum flowing. 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, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise to sort through the level of blame coach Mike Tomlin deserves for the NFL Week 7 loss to the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. Was the game plan flawed from the start? Where was the pressure from the pass rush and stars like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton, Derick Harmon and others? Were the 3- and 4-man rushes frequently deployed simply not enough to disrupt Bengals QB Joe Flacco and star WRs Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, leading to problems in the secondary for Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey and others? And why haven't names like Benton, Payton Wilson and others developed as much as many fans had hoped under Tomlin? Our duo tackles those questions, plus the performance of the tight ends. Who's the best player from the group of Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith right now? Are they enough for Aaron Rodgers to have success in the passing game beyond DK Metcalf most weeks? And should GM Omar Khan consider trading any of them for a second wide receiver who's an upgrade over Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley begin their offseason analysis series by looking at the outfield. If Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds improve enough, will the issues in the outfield be addressed from within? If not, who should the Pirates go after in free agency? And how close is Esmerlyn Valdez to the big leagues? 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 discussing Pitt football, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise weighs in on the win against Florida State last week and what it says about the Panthers' chances in the ACC title race. Did the upset legitimize the upside coach Pat Narduzzi's team has? Or are the Seminoles under coach Mike Norvell too inconsistent to count as a significant landmark victory? Can Narduzzi win the games his team is favored in the rest of the way? Especially with a freshman at QB in Mason Heintschel? And how much flack does Narduzzi deserve for choosing Eli Holstein over Heintchel early on, considering the new NIL era that gives players with big deals a leg up? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly Penn State YouTube segment, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Nittany Lions' firing of coach James Franklin this week. Was the move by AD Pat Kraft too impulsive in hindsight? Did he deserve at least another year considering Penn State was in the Big Ten championship and College Football Playoff less than a year ago? What does Paul make of legacy candidates for the job including Nebraska's Matt Rhule and Cincinnati Bengals DC Al Golden, both of whom played for Joe Paterno in Happy Valley? And what should we make of Curt Cignetti's new deal at Indiana and his potential to take the Penn State job? 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 the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to the team's NFL Week 7 loss to the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. Why were Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr., DeShon Elliott and the Steelers' secondary so bad in many coverage against the Bengals' passing attack led by Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Joe Flacco? Were expectations that coach Mike Tomlin's secondary would thrive in one-on-one situations misplaced? Or is this still an area where DC Teryl Austin can generate success against less potent pass games? And where do Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon and the pass rush fit into the situation? Our duo tackles those questions and ponder whether this was a loss to panic over or just a bump in the road over the course of a long season. Especially considering the way Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense were able to generate points to keep the Steelers in the 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 recap the Steelers' NFL Week 7 loss against the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. Why were the Bengals' Joe Flacco, Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase able to have so much success against Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr., Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and the Steelers' vaunted secondary? How did Bengals RB Chase Brown pile up over 100 yards against a Steelers defensive front that includes Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton, Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson? And where does coach Mike Tomlin's defense stand moving forward? Our duo tackles those questions plus and up-and-down night for Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Jaylen Warren, Roman Wilson and the Steelers offense that piled up points but also committed some costly errors. 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 7 Thursday Night Football matchup with the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Darnell Washington and others able to maintain their momentum in the passing game? How did Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and the offensive line perform against the Bengals' pass rush? Were they able to clear running room for RBs Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson and Kenneth Gainwell against a porous Bengals secondary? On the defensive side, how well was the secondary led by Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey and DeShon Elliott able to contain star Bengals receivers Ja'Marr Case and Tee Higgins? And how effective was the pass rush led by T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon against Bengals QB Joe Flacco? Our duo tackles those questions, plus the coaching performance of Mike Tomlin and coordinators Arthur Smith and Teryl Asutin. 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 Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado ponder the top candidates to replace James Franklin as head coach after he was fired Sunday. Will the ties Matt Rhule, Al Golden or D'Anton Lynn have to the program and Joe Paterno years win out? Could successful head coaches with outsider resumes like Eli Drinkwitz, P.J. Fleck and Curt Cignetti have success in Happy Valley? Should fans want to see Franklin-era legacy hires like Joe Brady and/or Manny Diaz make a return? Or would young coordinators like Brian Hartline and Ohio State or Will Stein at Oregon have the most possible upside? Our duo ponders 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 episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter welcomes NFL analyst Ross Tucker to chart the growth of the offensive line. Are Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Isaac Seumalo, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick figuring things out in protection of QB Aaron Rodgers? How much room do they still have to grow as a line? And can they find more chemistry in the running game for backs including Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson within OC Arthur Smith's offense? Our duo tackles those questions, plus the latest in the AFC North race. Can coach Mike Tomlin and Co. cruise to a division title after yet another loss by the Ravens on Sunday and continued struggles from the Browns and Bengals? Or can Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and Baltimore still charge back with some tougher tests awaiting the Steelers after their NFL Week 7 matchup with the Bengals this week? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the Steelers practice facility after Tuesday's practice leading up to the team's "Thursday Night Football" matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. What can we expect from the Steelers defense, which went out and got defensive backs like Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay Jr. to pair with Joey Porter Jr. and take on guys like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins? What does it say about that unit's depth that they may be able to move guys around and use in different matchups and coverages? What can we expect from Joe Flacco, a player who's very familiar with the Steelers and actually beat Pittsburgh last season as a member of the Indianapolis Colts? Will pass rushers like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig be able to get after him because of his lack of mobility? Or will his still elite arm strength pose a problem? 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 Pirates insiders Colin Beazley and Jason Mackey return for their first podcast of the MLB offseason talking arbitration decisions looming for GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly. How much are names like Oneil Cruz, Dennis Santana, Joey Bart, Johan Oviedo and Colin Holderman worth to this team? Could any of them, or others like Jack Suwinski, Justin Lawrence, Yohan Ramirez or Dauri Moreta be non-tender candidates? And how does the potential re-signing -- or lack thereof -- of Andrew McCutchen factor into the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's Varsity Xtra Podcast, Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White take a look at what Penn State recruits from the WPIAL -- including Fort Cherry's Matt Sieg and McKeesport's Kemon Spell -- might do following James Franklin's firing as coach. They also look back at interim coach Terry Smith's time in the WPIAL as a player and coach. Later, they tackle some hot topics on the field in Wester Pa. Could Thomas Jefferson or Aliquippa really miss the WPIAL playoffs? Can Fox Chapel's Harran Zureikat break the state record for longest field goal of 64 yards? Trinity's Jonah Williamson and South Allegheny's Drew Cook are this week's "shining stars," and the guys serve up predictions of the top games this week: Montour at Aliquippa; Elizabeth Forward at Southmoreland; South Side at Laurel; North Allegheny at Pine-Richland; Canon-McMillan at Norwin; Central Valley at Hopewell. 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 Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to analyze the early results from first-round NFL draft pick Derrick Harmon. Is he proving why he was worthy of being the team's first-round NFL draft pick, even over fellow standout rookies like the Giants' Jaxson Dart? How is his play opening up room for other members of the defense? Including names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Patrick Queen and Keeanu Benton? And how much room does he still have to grow as a rookie within coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the team's situation at wide receiver next to DK Metcalf. Why was Roman Wilson mostly invisible in NFL Week 6 against the Cleveland Browns? Even with Calvin Austin III out of the lineup because of injury? Is it a simple question of matchups and OC Arthur Smith's preference for tight ends like Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith? Or is Wilson falling short in some areas? Why hasn't Scotty Miller been able to make a strong training camp and preseason translate to regular season games? And could Omar Khan make a trade for a receiver to help QB Aaron Rodgers, following a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter on the topic? 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 Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's weekly news conference ahead of an NFL Week 7 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. Why did Tomlin call out the Cleveland Browns and GM Andrew Berry so harshly for their trade of Joe Flacco to the AFC North rival Bengals? Are his frustrations with the intradivision trade valid? Or was there merit to the deal for both sides? Paul gives his thoughts on those questions, plus the win over the Browns in NFL Week 6. Have Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense started to find an identity? Or should we take big numbers against the Browns with a grain of salt? And how sustainable is the pass rush from names like T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Derrick Harmon, Cam Heyward and Jalen Ramsey against superior competition? 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 react to the Panthers' upset of Florida State this past week and how it may or may not reframe expectations for coach Pat Narduzzi's team the rest of the season. Could freshman QB Mason Heintschel and RB Desmond Reid still possibly lead the team to an ACC championship appearance? Or would that be asking too much of them within OC Kade Bell's offense? Is the defensive line in trouble following the loss of Zach Crothers for the season due to injury? Or could names like Blaine Spires and Jaeden Moore provide boosts? And how will Narduzzi manage his backfield with Ja'Kyrian Turner and Juelz Goff in the mix alongside Reid? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo give their thoughts on a rousing victory against the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Specifically, they weigh in on the offense's performance. Have Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington and others shown fans enough to believe in the unit? Or do we still need to be in wait-and-see mode with OC Arthur Smit's group? Later, they ponder the defense's improvements. Was the dominance of rookie QB Dillon Gabriel a product of the opposition? Or are names like Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Patrick Queen and Derrick Harmon beginning to figure things out after a rocky start to the season? Especially in run defense where they shut down rookie running back Quinshon Judkins? Out 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.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise react LIVE to the Steelers' NFL Week 6 matchup with the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Was coach Mike Tomlin's defense able to keep its momentum from the Dublin, Ireland win against the Minnesota Vikings going? Were names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon able to build on a six-sack effort with consistent pressure on Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel? How did the backfield shape up in Jaylen Warren's return from injury? And were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith and others able to have more downfield passing success? Our duo tackles those questions and more. The stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the game's conclusion on CBS. 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/Daily College Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado react to Penn State's firing of James Franklin as coach after a three-game losing streak vs. Oregon, UCLA and Nothwestern. Was this the right time for athletic director Pat Kraft to make a move? What's the outlook for this team the rest of the season under interim coach Terry Smith? How much is QB Drew Allar to blame? Or is this a case of Franklin and OC Andy Kotelnicki letting their signal caller down? And where do names like Curt Cignetti, Kenny Dillingham, Kalen DeBoer, Will Stein and Matt Rhule belong in the pecking order of potential replacements? 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 & Ray Fittipaldo recap an NFL Week 6 victory against the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acirusre Stadium. They explain how Nick Herbig, Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon and others were able to generate so much pressure on Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel; why Patrick Queen and the run defense were able to shut down dangerous rookie RB Quinshon Judkins; and a productive day from Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense, which was able to move the ball both through the air and on the ground for coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith. 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' 34-31 win over Florida State on Saturday, with Stephen reporting from Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Fla. How were Pat Narduzzi's Panthers able to pull of the upset on the road? What made the contest so "personal" for Desmond Reid, as he put it, and how much of a difference does he make for the Panthers offense? How did true freshman Mason Heintschel perform in a hostile environment, and how was he able to pick himself up after a couple of bad mistakes at the end of the first half? And how were the offensive and defensive lines, which were both shorthanded due to injuries, able to make enough plays for the win? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to trades by the Cleveland Browns ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup between the two teams on Sunday. Do coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and Co. deserve credit for being aggressive about wining in 2025? With big moves for names like Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith and others this offseason? Especially now that the team has a comfortable lead in the AFC North division? Or is there validity to the Browns' approach of building for the future, with deals this week involving Joe Flacco and Greg Newsome on expiring contracts? Our duo tackles those questions, then makes game picks and ponders whether Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel is ready to handle the heat from Steelers defensive stars including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Derrick Harmon and Keeanu Benton. 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 preview the Panthers' noon contest on Saturday against No. 25 Florida State at Doak Campbell Stadium. Can true freshman QB Mason Heintschel lead the Panthers to another win, this time against a ranked opponent in a hostile environment? How pivotal of a game is this for Pitt, and what will we learn about them by the time it's over? What Pitt players/matchups should we pay attention to? Stephen and Abby also give the scouting report for the Seminoles and give their picks for the game and keys to win. 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 Thursday practice ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. They give their thoughts on comments by DC Teryl Austin and OC Arthur Smith. Specifically, the ponder whether Austin has unlocked T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon after they tallied six sacks in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings. Can those results continue? Or was the big day a one-off? How involved can Austin get inside linebackers like Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson within the rush? And when will we get to see a complete secondary that includes a healthy Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions and ways Smith is working with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Darnell Washington. 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 Cleveland.com and Plain-Dealer Browns insider Ashley Bastock to preview the NFL Week 6 matchup with the Steelers. What's going on with the team at QB following the Joe Flacco trade. Is Dillon Gabriel ready to be the starter for the rest of the season? And how does Shedeur Sanders figure into the mix as coach Kevin Stefanski prepares to match wits with Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers? How will the latest Myles Garrett vs. T.J. Watt matchup unfold? And how has former Steeler Devin Bush been able to find success with an AFC North rival? Our duo tackles those questions and more Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 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 wins over Clemson and Georgia Tech. What can Pitt take away from its victories over the Tigers and Yellow Jackets? Are the Panthers being disrespected at No. 4 in the AVCA rankings, behind Kentucky, a team they've already beaten this season in straight sets? How is the team evolving as the season goes on? How has last season's AVCA Player of the Year Olivia Babcock improved her defense? Plus, Cat shares some of her experiences playing professionally in Peru. 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. Eastern, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise weighs in on the Cleveland Browns QB situation ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Should T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and the Steelers defense be happy about facing rookie Dillon Gabriel within the AFC North? Or would they have preferred to face Joe Flacco, who was traded to the Bengals this week? And did Browns coach Kevin Stefanski make the right choice in Gabriel over draft classmate Shedeur Sanders? Paul tackles those questions as well as the Steelers' tight-end usage with Pat Freiermuth seeing limited reps next to Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith. Is it the right move for QB Aaron Rodgers and OC Arthur Smith's unit? Or should he be a big part of the passing game along with names like DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III? 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 Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonado evaluate the state of the program after a costly upset loss at UCLA. Is there anything coach James Franklin can do to escape the toxicity surrounding his job? Does his future deserve to be in question given the elevated commitments the Penn State community has made to the program in recent years? Was Jim Knowles the right hire at defensive coordinator? Or would Dani Dennis-Sutton and the defense have been better off with some continuity in the form of a position coach like Anthony Poindexter? And how much belief genuinely exists in the Penn State locker room after Drew Allar's confident statements that the team can still make the College Football Playoff? 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 episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko ponder Pat Freiermuth's lack of usage early this season. Is his lack of presence in the passing game a problem for OC Arthur Smith and QB Aaron Rodgers? Has it simply made more sense to get the ball to other targets including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington? And how much could his role in the offense change depending upon who the Steelers are playing in a given week? Do the Cleveland Browns in NFL Week 6 present a better matchup? Our duo tackles those questions, plus a flurry of AFC North trades this week, including Joe Flacco to the Bengals and Alohi Gilman to the Ravens in exchange for Odafe Oweh. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.