The North Shore Drive

Post-Gazette Pitt football insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the possibilities for the Panthers' upcoming bowl game and which potential opponent they could face up against. Where should Pitt want to go, and who should they want to face? Is a rivalry matchup against Penn State a legitimate possibility? Are there any marquee programs out there they could meet up with? How can Pat Narduzzi's Panthers send Desmond Reid and the other seniors out on a high note while also getting freshmen like Mason Heintschel, Ja'Kyrian Turner and Shawn Lee Jr. more reps? Can Heintschel's connection with Kenny Johnson grow in Kade Bell's offense? Plus, Stephen and Abby preview Pitt basketball's Tuesday matchup with Texas A&M. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The high school football season will come to an end this weekend when Cumberland Valley High School in Mechanicsburg plays host to six PIAA championship games. Our Post-Gazette insiders, veteran scribe Mike White and high school sports coordinator Keith Barnes, break it down. In the first segment the two look at games involving non-WPIAL teams in Classes 2A, 4A and 5A. After a quick break, they examine the title matchups in Class 1A between Clairton and Bishop Guilfoyle, the Class 3A 2024 rematch between Avonworth and Northwestern Lehigh and finally the Class 6A clash, a rematch of the 2025 season opener won by La Salle College High School, 23-6, over Central Catholic at the Wolvarena. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Penguins insider Jason Mackey recaps a busy weekend of news for coach Dan Muse's team. This show is presented by FanDuel. Will Rutger McGroarty and Boko Imama make differences upon their recalls from the minors? Why do this team's outcomes seem so goalie-dependent? And can Tristan Jarry and Artur Silovs rise to the occasion consistently? Will Sidney Crosby continue his success against the rival Philadelphia Flyers this week? And what needs to change in for Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, Erik Karlsson and Co. in December? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christipher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the NFL Week 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. Did coach Mike Tomlin's team show a lack of fight in defeat? How could the effort level not be an indictment of Tomlin and his coaching staff that includes OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin? And does this team lack the one clear strength past Tomlin teams have needed to recover from long losing skids? Our duo tackles those questions, plus QB Aaron Rodgers calling out practice and film-watching habits. What does it show about the players' commitment level? Can he still get on the same page with receivers including DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth? 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 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. Why did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton, Alex Highsmith, Payton Wilson and the defensive front seven struggle so mightily to contain James Cook and the Buffalo running game? Will coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin have answers before facing the run-heavy Ravens in a crucial AFC North battle next week? What went wrong for QB Aaron Rodgers in his return from injury? Is there still time for him to find chemistry with pass catchers DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth? Or is this offense in trouble? Especially after also failing to generate production with running backs Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And what will the defense do amid LB Patrick Queen's injury? 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 13 with the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. How did QB Aaron Rodgers look in his return from injury? Did he look like he could have played last week instead of backup Mason Rudolph? Were pass catchers including DK Metcalf, Darnell Washington, Roman Wilson, Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III able to find more space than they have in the last several weeks? Were Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell able to continue their momentum in the backfield? How much pressure were T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Patrick Queen and others able to get on star Bills QB Josh Allen? And did Mike Tomlin make enough adjustments with Jalen Ramsey, Kyle Dugger, Joey Porter Jr. and others in the secondary to to avoid domination? 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 special edition of the Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Abby Schnable is joined by Panthers assistant coach Kamalani Akeo to break down the NCAA tournament bracket. Which teams on Pitt's side of the bracket pose the biggest threats, and who could emerge as a dark horse? How has this Panthers squad grown since a rocky start to the season, and what does that momentum mean heading into postseason play? Abby and coach Akeo weigh in with insights on the team's strengths, potential challenges and what fans should watch for as the tournament kicks off. 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' 40-36 win over Rutgers on Saturday at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, N.J. How was interim coach Terry Smith able to salvage a bowl game appearance at 6-6, and what does that say for his future prospects at the full-time job? What legacy are record breakers like Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton leaving behind them in Happy Valley, and what does it say about the program that they stayed for their entire careers without transferring? How did QB Ethan Grunkemeyer set himself up for the future? And where does the program go from here with a major decision looming on who will lead the program into the future? 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 Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 38-7 loss to Miami on Saturday afternoon at Acrisure Stadium. What went wrong for the Panthers, and why weren't they able to get the win to keep themselves in ACC championship contention? Despite Pitt being relatively competitive in the first half, what changed heading into a severely lackluster second? Why hasn't Pat Narduzzi been able to fix recurring issues, like a lack of discipline, poor offensive line play and mistakes in the secondary? Why couldn't the Panthers match up against Miami's star defensive linemen Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor? And where does this leave the program as it enters a bowl game and the offseason? What should Pitt's priorities be in the transfer portal? 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.

Pitt insiders Abby Schnable and Stephen Thompson break down Friday night's thrilling victory over Ohio State, as Damarco Minor carries the Panthers to a massive win. The Panthers defense was outstanding, as Minor led the way and the frontcourt shut down OSU's leading scorers Bryce Thornton and Christoph Tilly. Can Pitt carry this momentum into later games with power teams? 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko give the final look at Sunday's game against the Bills. How can Teryl Austin and Mike Tomlin dial up the right defense to stop a man they say can go into "Superman" mode in Josh Allen? And the AFC playoff race is getting tighter and more desperate. Where do the Steelers fit in? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Penguins writer Jason Mackey analyzes Tristan Jarry's return to the Penguins net and what it means for the team's future. Can Kyle Dubas find a perfect trading partner, perhaps with Jarry's hometown Edmonton Oilers? Or should Jarry stick around until Sergei Murashov is fully ready to take over in net? Plus, Rutger McGroarty isn't far from rejoining the Penguins. What can we expect when the young forward returns? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, presented by FanDuel, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Steelers special team ace Miles Killebrew for a chat ahead of an NFL Week 13 matchup with the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. They discuss Miles' choices for the NFL's My Cleats, My Cause weekend this season; his favorite NFL road venues; his injury recovery that's caused him to miss most of the season; his pride in current special teams captain Payton Wilson, who's excelled in the role this season; his observations of colorful special teams coach Danny Smith; and his hopes that Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and Co. can bounce back at home this week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian Nittany Lions insider Isaiah Maldonando tackle the latest buzz from the coaching search to replace James Franklin. This show is presented by FanDuel. Does interim coach Terry Smith have momentum after the home win against Nebraska? With many players and fans vocally supporting him? Why is there so much buzz around James Madison's Bob Chesney? Would he really be an upgrade on Franklin? And why do the rumors around Alabama's Kalen DeBoer not seem to be going away? Is there real smoke there? Or are Penn State fans wishcasting for a plausible big name to take over? Our duo tackles those questions; Franklin's arrival at Virginia Tech and his early recruiting win against Penn State with four-star prospect Messiah Mickens; Ethan Grunkemeyer's growth at QB; the regular season finale at Rutgers; and Nick Singleton's pursuit of the program touchdown record. 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 preview a ranked matchup against the Miami Hurricanes with major ACC championship and College Football Playoff implications. This show is presented by FanDuel. Can coach Pat Narduzzi's offensive line handle Ruben Bain Jr. and Akheem Messidor along Miami's defensive front to open up space for QB Mason Heintschel and RB Ja'Kyrian Turner to operate? How can Kyle Louis, Rasheem Biles and the defense disrupt Hurricane QB Carson Beck and RB Mark Fletcher? An what is the most likely path to the conference title game? Could Virginia lose to Virginia Tech? Or SMU to Cal? 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 Penguins insider Jason Mackey analyzes a key portion of the season for coach Dan Muse's team. This show is presented by FanDuel. Why is the current stretch around the Thanksgiving holiday key for hopes of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang eventually reaching the Stanley Cup Playoffs? Did GM Kyle Dubas make the right move in sending goalie Sergei Murashov to the minors, leaving Tristan Jarry and Artur Silovs on the active roster? Where can the team look for more depth scoring? And why has the Parker Wotherspoon/Erik Karlsson defensive pairing worked well so far? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder and Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to sort through the offense's current issues. Is OC Arthur Smith to blame for what's gone wrong during the skid of four losses in the last six games? Or is the execution simply not good enough right now? From QB Aaron Rodgers having a rough outing against the Los Angeles Chargers. To backup Mason Rudolph missing open receivers in the NFL Week 12 loss to the Chicago Bears? And what are the chances Smith will be on coach Mike Tomlin's staff next season? Our duo tackles those questions, then some of Chris' grades from his film study. Is DK Metcalf's skill set just a bad fit with what the Steelers are trying to do right? Especially in comparison to George Pickens, the guy Metcalf replaced as WR1? Were safeties Jalen Ramsey and Kyle Dugger bad against Caleb Williams and the Bears offense? Or were schematics to blame for their blown coverages? Is the young offensive line led by Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier becoming a strength? And is Yaya Black prepared to fill in for the injured Derrick Harmon this week on the defensive line? 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 legend James Harrison's scathing criticism of the coaching staff following the NFL Week 12 loss to the Chicago Bears. Was Harrison right to call out coach Mike Tomlin, OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin on his podcast with former Steeler Joe Haden? Is TE Darnell Washington being used correctly? And how much truth is there in his "soft" label for the defensive front that includes names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton? Paul tackles those questions, plus headlines from coach Mike Tomlin's news conference, which included an injury update on QB Aaron Rodgers. 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 coach Mike Tomlin's weekly news conference ahead of an NFL Week 13 matchup with the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. How will the offensive and defensive lines cope with their respective losses of Broderick Jones and Derrick Harmon this week, after both were ruled out by Tomlin? Are names like Yahya Black, Spender Anderson and Andrus Peat prepared to step up? What's the latest on Aaron Rodgers? Will he return from his wrist injury? Or could we see more of Mason Rudolph? Will we see more passes across the middle to names like DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III? And how can Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and the secondary perform better against Bills star QB Josh Allen than they did against Bears QB Caleb Williams? 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 welcomes Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley to talk through the latest offseason news and rumors with the MLB Winter Meetings looming. This show is presented by FanDuel. What should we make of reports that GM Ben Cherington is planning to spend generously this offseason? And what counts as a sizable boost in payroll? Would Ryan O'Hearn make sense as a first base target? How much could Jorge Polanco help manager Don Kelley's team in the middle infield? And should Cherington be in the mix to land Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the potential signings of recent non-tender casualties JJ Bleday and Adolis Garcia and whether they could be the pieces that help put a roster that includes Paul Skenes, Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds over the top for postseason berth in 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable react to Pitt basketball's surprising non-conference loss to Quinnipiac and ponder whether the season is already beginning to slip away for Jeff Capel and the Panthers. This show is presented by FanDuel. Is Capel's program going backward toward the early days of his tenure? When mid-major losses were more common? What's wrong with the defense? And how does a lack of depth behind starters like Cam Corhen, Brandin Cummings, Demarco Minor and Omari Witherspoon play into the struggles? Where has Papa Kante been over the past couple of games? And is KenPom.com correct to favor the Panthers in just three of their remaining games? 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.

Peters Township's comeback against Pine-Richland in the WPIAL 5A championship was one for the ages. On their weekly podcast, Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White react to that game and the rest WPIAL championships at Acrisure Stadium. How did Cole Neupaver, Nolan DiLucia and Co. storm back? How impressive were Will Martin's three touchdowns for Seton LaSalle in the Class 2A final? Why were coach Duke Johncour, RB Luca Neal and Avonworth able to repeat in Class 3A? And how did Clairton coach Wayne Wade and star Deon Lovelace-Pompey help the Bears pull away in Class 1A? Our duo tackles those questions; offers predictions for the PIAA semifinals this week and previews of the rankings for basketball season, which begins Friday. 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 and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo analyze the team's current losing skid of four losses in six games. Can coach Mike Tomlin turn things around midseason as he has in the past? What lessons can he stars including Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward and Jalen Ramsey learn from those turnarounds? And could a midseason firing of a coordinator like Arthur Smith or Teryl Austin be a potential solution like it was with Matt Canada in 2023? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes the remaining schedule and what the Steelers will need to do to make the NFL playoffs. Is at least one win in the next two games against the Bills and Ravens necessary? How can they match up with Josh Allen and Buffalo in NFL Week 13 or Lamar Jackson and Baltimore in NFL Week 14? And are the Browns and Dolphins the only opponents this team may have a clear advantage against? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable recap Pitt football coach Pat Narduzzi's weekly news conference following an upset of Georgia Tech and ahead of a ranked matchup against Miami that will define ACC championship and College Football Playoff hopes. This show is presented by FanDuel. Was the victory against the Yellow Jackets really as "shocking" as Narduzzi implied? Or are Mason Heintschel, Kenny Johnson, Ja'Kyrian Turner, Rasheem Biles, Kyle Louis and the Panthers justifiably on the radar of most ACC observers as serious contenders? What's the state of the offensive line following a strong outing from Kendall Stanley? And should fans be concerned about Sam Carpenter and the kicking game amid Trey Butkowski's injury? 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 Penguins insider Jason Mackey reacts to a busy weekend for the club that included a pair of losses to the Minnesota Wild and Seattle Kraken over the weekend. This show is presented by FanDuel. Were coach Dan Muse's comments ripping his team justified by the results? Where does this team stand at the quarter mark of the NHL season? Can goalies Tristan Jarry, Arturs Silovs and Sergei Murashov be a strength moving forward? Do veteran stars Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang have the young core of talent around them arriving ahead of schedule? And what brought Jason back to the Penguins beat after a few years away? He 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 sort through the NFL Week 12 loss to the Chicago Bears. Why did coach Mike Tomlin seemingly abandon the two-high safety looks that had worked for his defense in recent weeks? What were the "schematic issues" that linebacker Patrick Queen blamed the loss on after the game? And how can Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin get this expensive unit led by T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Kyle Dugger, Payton Wilson and others back on track yet again. Our duo tackles those questions, plus backup QB Mason Rudolph's performance in place of injured starter Aaron Rodgers. How did Rudolph show why the No. 2 role is what he deserves? Will Rodgers be able to start next week after not dressing Sunday? And how can either QB get more out of pass catchers including DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington? 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 an NFL Week 12 loss to the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Does coach Mike Tomlin deserve scrutiny for some of his decisions? Were Mason Rudolph's blunders -- which included a fumble and an interception on a pass to DK Metcalf -- too much for the offense to overcome. Where was the defensive pressure on Bears QB Caleb Williams after a first-quarter strip sack by T.J. Watt that led to a touchdown by Nick Herbig? What is Aaron Rodgers' status amid his wrist injury? And how important is Kenneth Gainwell's big-play ability becoming for this otherwise plodding 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 12 with the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. This show is presented by FanDuel. Did coach Mike Tomlin make the right call in starting Mason Rudolph over the injured Aaron Rodgers? How did Rudolph do in handling the passing game with DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth, Roman Wilson and Darnell Washington? Were Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell effective again in the running game? How much pressure did Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, T.J. Watt and the Steelers' pass rushers generate on Bears QB Caleb Williams? And to what extent were Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., James Pierre, Darius Slay and the secondary able to keep names like Rome Odunze, D.J. Moore and Colston Loveland in check? 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 insiders Isaiah Maldonado and Lyle Alenstein break down the Nittany Lions' 37-10 win over Nebraska on Saturday afternoon at Beaver Stadium. How were the Nittany Lions, in the midst of such a disappointing season, able to dominate the Cornhuskers so thoroughly? What does it mean for Kaytron Allen to break Evan Royster's all-time Penn State rushing record, especially alongside his longtime running mate Nick Singleton? What did Ethan Grunkemeyer show that he can carry through the end of this season and into next? Was there something to the defense's performance, or did it just take advantage of a freshman Nebraska quarterback? And should we be paying attention to the players' reactions to interim coach Terry Smith? 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 look at keys for NFL Week 12 against the Chicago Bears. Can DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith generate more yards after the catch? Regardless of whether Aaron Rodgers or Mason Rudolph is the starting quarterback? Is that the key to this passing game reaching expectations for OC Arthur Smith? And what can be learned from that group's early-season success? Our duo tackles those questions, then makes predictions for whether T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Cam Heyward, Joey Porter Jr., James Pierre and the defense can contain a dangerous Chicago offense led by Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze, D.J. Moore, Colston Loveland and D'Andre Swift. 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 basketball insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable react to the loss Thursday against UCF in Daytona Beach, Fla. This show is presented by FanDuel. What went wrong for coach Jeff Capel and starters Roman Siulepa, Cam Corhen, Omari Witherspoon, Demarco Minor and Brandin Cummings? Why has scoring been such an issue during the non-conference schedule? Should fans be encouraged by 3-point defense? Or concerned that the Knights were able to score at will everywhere else? And can Corhen and teammate Papa Kante be more physical as ACC play looms? 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 welcomes Post-Gazette Pirates insider Colin Beazley to discuss the latest offseason developments with the club. Why did GM Ben Cherington decide to keep struggling outfielder Jack Suwinski ahead of the MLB non-tender deadline? Does he have a future in the outfield next to names like Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz? And will Joey Bart, Dennis Santana, Johan Oviedo and Justin Lawrence all stay with the club through the deadline? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders 40-man roster decisions ahead of the MLB Rule 5 draft next month. Why did Cherington decide to protect prospects outfielder/first baseman Esmerlyn Valdez; infielder Jack Brannigan; right-handed pitchers Wilber Dotel, Antwone Kelly and Brandan Bidois; and left-hander Tyler Samaniego by adding them to the roster? And will the club miss Colin Holderman Dauri Moreta, Ronny Simon, Alexander Canario or Cam Devanney the players who were sent out to make room? Then the guys finish the show by talking about the Kyle Schwarber rumors from the week and whether they make sense for a Pirates roster with a lot of holes. 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 discuss the surprising popularity of Steelers backup QBs Will Howard and Mason Rudolph. Why are some fans so eager to see both with future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers in place as the starter? Is there any world where Howard, a rookie, is ready for meaningful NFL snaps if Rodgers can't play in NFL Week 12 because of his injury? What is his upside at the NFL level? And why have some fans moved on so quickly from Rudolph's struggles that they lamented early in his career as the backup to Ben Roethlisberger? Our duo tackles those questions, plus some AFC North topics. Will Steelers fans regret the team not taking Shedeur Sanders in the NFL draft if he thrives in his first start for the Browns? Are the Bengals a bad team even if Joe Burrow is able to return at some point this season? And are Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and the Ravens really as dangerous to the Steelers in division race as some perceive them to be? 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 analyze Pitt's loss to Notre Dame and what it means for the Panthers' ACC title hopes. Was the ugly defeat a signal of how far Pat Narduzzi's program still has to go? Or will it perform better against conference competition? Can Mason Heintschel shake off the adversity as a freshman? And are Kyle Louis, Rasheem Biles and the Pitt front seven a threat to every team left on their schedule, including ranked Georgia Tech and Miami teams? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders Narduzzi going up against old rival James Franklin now that he's been hired as Virginia Tech's coach. 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 preview a big ACC matchup against Georgia Tech, with College Football Playoff hopes in the balance. This show is presented by FanDuel. Has OC Kade Bell's offense become less reliant on Desmond Reid? Between Mason Heintchel's chemistry with receivers Kenny Johnson, Blue Hicks and Poppi Williams? And Ja'Kyrian Turner's growth as a running back? Are Rasheem Biles, Kyle Louis and the Pitt defense ready for the challenge of slowing Georgia Tech's Haynes King? And what are Abby and Stephen's picks for the game? 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 Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's practice facility ahead of an NFL Week 12 matchup with the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. What does it mean that Aaron Rodgers was seen working at QB during the portion of practice open to media? Will he play this week? Or will Mason Rudolph get the nod as Rodgers continues to recover from a broken wrist? Our duo tackles those questions for coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith. Then ponders the future for Cory Trice Jr., who failed activation from injured reserve; and James Pierre's role at cornerback with Darius Slay returning from injury. 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 former Chicago Bears scout and current analyst Greg Gabriel to preview the two teams' NFL Week 12 matchup at Soldier Field. How much of a test will Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze, D.J. Moore, Colston Loveland and a sneakily effective Bears passing game be for coach Mike Tomlin's re-tooled secondary that's found success with names like Kyle Dugger, James Pierre and Brandin Echols playing next to Joey Porter Jr. and Jalen Ramsey? Is the Bears' defense underrated amid a slew of forced turnovers? And how is coach Ben Johnson performing in his first year leading a pro team? 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 considers coach Mike Tomlin's options in his defense's secondary, ahead of an NFL Week 12 matchup with the Chicago Bears. This show is presented by FanDuel. Should Darius Slay be benched in favor of red-hot James Pierre at cornerback? Or does it make the most sense to stick with the battle-tested veteran opposite Joey Porter Jr. Especially considering his gaudy contract? Where does Brandin Echols belong in the conversation? And with Slay starting this week either way, how long should Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin continue to stick with him if he struggles? Paul tackles those questions, plus the latest with the Aaron Rodgers injury situation. 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 insider Abby Schnable and former Panthers standout react to a weekend loss at Stanford and what it means for coach Dan Fisher's team. Why is Pitt having trouble closing out sets? And how can Olivia Babcock and Co. fix the issue with the NCAA tournament looming? How important were Sophia Gregoire's contributions in a win against California later in the weekend? What are Abby and Cat's ideal starting lineups? And how are they sizing up the three-way ACC championship battle between Pitt, Stanford and Louisville? 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 take stock of the Penn State coaching search with a primetime game against coach Matt Rhule and Nebraska looming this week. Is Rhule still a live option to return to his alma mater? Despite an extension signed with the Cornhuskers within the last few weeks, and a lousy career record against nationally ranked competition? Will James Franklin potentially cause problems for whomever is the next Penn State coach now that his hiring at Virginia Tech is official? Is Terry Smith forcing his way into the conversation with the team's improved play and his emotional investment in the program that went viral this week? And where do names like Kalen DeBoer and Brian Daboll fit into the conversation? Our duo tackles those topics, plus the game this week. Should Penn State be favored so heavily at home? Will Dani Dennis-Sutton, Ethan Grunkemeyer, Zakee Wheatley and the Lions still be motivated after delivering Smith's first win? And how good are Kaytron Allen's chances to break Evan Royster's career rushing record? 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 situation at running back ahead of an NFL Week 12 matchup with the Chicago Bears. Should Kenneth Gainwell get more touches after his big outing against the Bengals? Would that be difficult with how well Jaylen Warren is playing? Or is OC Arthur Smith handling everything just right? And how does Kaleb Johnson factor into the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions then talks defensive backs. Is Joey Porter Jr. underrated because of his penalties? How have coach Mike Tomlin's adjustments in the secondary helped him? Do up-and-coming teammates like Kyle Dugger, James Pierre and Brandin Echols have staying power? And what does Jalen Ramsey offer at safety that's different from what the Steelers have deployed at that position in the recent past? 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 takes stock of the Steelers' rivalry with the Cincinnati Bengals following the spitting incident between Jalen Ramsey and Ja'Marr Chase in NFL Week 11. Has the moment reignited the bitter rivalry teams have have shared over the years? Evoking the days of Vontaze Burfict, Antonio Brown and others? Should Chase have been suspended for more than one game by the NFL over the incident? And will fans now rally behind Ramsey because of the incident? Paul tackles those topics, then reacts to the latest news from coach Mike Tomlin regarding the Aaron Rodgers' injury and Mason Rudolph potentially taking over as the starter at QB. 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 preview the MLB Rule 5 draft and tough decisions GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelley will need to make for their roster as the offseason gets under way. This show is presented by FanDuel. Who from the group of Brandan Bidois, Esmerlyn Valdez, Antwone Kelly and Wilber Dotel should the duo protect with a 40-man roster spot? Which names on that list are more expendable than the others? And what type of player should the front office be looking to snag from other teams? Our duo tackles those questions; the coaching staff additions of Tony Beasley and Kristopher Negron; and reports linking the Pirates to Josh Naylor and Kyle Schwarber in free agency. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder the Steelers' decision to trade WR George Pickens in the offseason. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have regret about the move, given Pickens' impressive production with the Cowboys? How good would he look next to DK Metcalf and ahead of names like Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson on the depth chart? How would he be meshing with QB Aaron Rodgers? And are the Steelers better off without the attitude headaches Pickens caused at times while in Pittsburgh? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks tight ends. How did Darnell Washington ascend into being the top option for the Steelers at the position? Especially with Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth making big money in 2025? And can he keep up this level of production as teams become more aware of him as an option within OC Arthur Smith's system? 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 11 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. Can Mason Rudolph handle the job of starting QB for OC Arthur Smith if he's forced to play more amid Aaron Rodgers' injury? How did his connection with receivers including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington, Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth look? And what's the latest we know about Rodgers' injury that kept him out of the second half Sunday? Our duo tackles those questions, then pivots to the defense. Has coach Mike Tomlin solved the unit's biggest problem? Why were Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Kyle Dugger and James Pierre able to have so much success against Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins compared to a month ago, when that trio dominated the defense in Cincinnati? And how did good work on the back end help guys up front including T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and others? 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 11 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. They detail strong efforts in relief by Mason Rudolph and Kenneth Gainwell, who filled in for Aaron Rodgers and Jaylen Warren amid their respective injuries; standout defensive performances from James Pierre and Kyle Dugger, who both scored defensive touchdowns; and the defense's success in limiting Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, who dominated in the first meeting with the Steelers a few weeks ago. They also offer the latest new on Rodgers' injury and Jalen Ramsey's claims that Chase spit on him, leading to Ramsey's ejection in the second half. 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 11 rematch with the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. Were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and OC Arthur Smith's offense able to take advantage of the struggling Bengals defense, as many expected? How did Jalen Ramsey, Kyle Dugger, Joey Porter Jr. and the revamped secondary able to match up with Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and the Bengals' passing game after struggles again them in the first meeting? And were T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith and Cam Heyward able to get more pressure up front? 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/Daily Collegian Penn State insider Lyle Alenstein is joined by Joel Haas to break down the Nittany Lions' 28-10 win over Michigan State on Saturday afternoon at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, Mich. How was Penn State able to snap its long, six-game losing streak? Is it a sign of good things to come throughout the rest of the season for interim coach Terry Smith? Or is it just a one-time thing as the Nittany Lions look forward to 2026? How was Kaytron Allen able to find success as he nears the Penn State all-time rushing record? And how did Ethan Grunkemeyer look as he continues to develop in Andy Kotelnicki's offense? 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 Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable break down the Panthers' 37-15 loss to Notre Dame on Saturday from Acrisure Stadium. Did Pitt miss a major opportunity to show out on a big stage on national TV and with "College GameDay" in town? What went wrong for the offense? Does Mason Heintschel deserve blame for his poor performance, or was it a case of not having much help from his teammates? What positives can the defense take away, as it actually fared well against the Fighting Irish despite being put in some horrible positions? And Is there any reason to believe Pitt can still win the ACC championship, with big games against Georgia Tech and Miami looming? 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko preview the Week 11 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Have coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin made enough adjustments to since the last meeting slow Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins and the Bengals passing game? Will personnel moves help? From Jalen Ramsey's move to safety to the additions of Kyle Dugger and Asante Samuel Jr.? And will T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith and the defensive front be able to generate more pressure? Our duo tackles those questions. Then ponders whether the Bengals are the perfect opponent for QB Aaron Rodgers and pass catchers Darnell Washington, Pat Freiermuth, DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Calvin Austin III, Jaylen Warren and Roman Wilson to figure things out against offensively. 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 beat writers Jason Mackey and Colin Beazley react to Paul Skenes winning the National League Cy Young award this week, alongside American League winner Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers. This show is presented by FanDuel. They address not just why Skenes was the obvious choice despite the Pirates' poor season overall; Skenes' comments about his desire to win in Pittsburgh alongside manager Don Kelly and teammates including Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, Mitch Keller and others; and Skenes' and GM Ben Cherington's dismissal of trade rumors this week that suggested Skenes wants to be dealt to the New York Yankees. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.