Podcast appearances and mentions of alex highsmith

Back-to-Back Gut Punch Sets Up Christmas Stakes The Detroit Lions let a win slip in Week 16. Pittsburgh beat them 29-24. Detroit fell to 8-7 and took its first back-to-back loss since 2022. The Lions had first and goal at the 1 with seconds left and still walked off with a defeat. This was not a no-show. The Steelers looked like an AFC playoff team and strung together a suffocating, clock-chewing drive. Yet the chance was there. The miss stings. Now the NFL calendar points to Christmas Day. Vikings on Netflix. Detroit must win out. Green Bay must lose out. The Packers draw the Ravens next and finish with the Vikings. The Lions close with Minnesota and Chicago. The path exists, but it is narrow. The latest Detroit Lions Podcast lays out why the margin keeps shrinking. Third-Quarter Vanish, Red-Zone Regret The same issue keeps surfacing. The third quarter turns into a freezer. Negative yards. Empty possessions. Rhythm gone. Then a desperate rally follows and the game tightens late. That script played out again. The offense disappeared for long stretches, then reached the doorstep and failed to finish. First and goal at the 1. No points. That sequence defines the afternoon as much as any explosive play. Situational football hurt. Short-yardage execution hurt. The Lions have been one of the league's best at bouncing back after losses. Fifteen straight wins after a defeat had been the NFL's top mark. That streak and the margin for error evaporated in Pittsburgh. Run-Game Mechanics Under the Microscope The podcast dug into the run fits and assignments. Too often Detroit left the backside end unaccounted for after motion. An H-back would be aligned to help and then move away at the snap. The edge stayed naked and got knifed. Early on, Anthony Firkser aligned in the backfield to the left with Alex Highsmith outside. Motion pulled Firkser away, and Highsmith charged straight through. On other calls, guards were asked to pull across the formation and reach Highsmith. That is a tough ask against that burst and angle. There was a bright spot up front. Kingsley Accucon made his first career start and graded as the Lions' top run blocker. He showed promise. The contrast with earlier rotations that leaned on Tristan Colon at left guard and center raises timing questions. The unit needs continuity and cleaner answers on the edge. Defense Bent, Then Broke; Christmas in Minneapolis Pittsburgh's marathon march felt like ten minutes of scrimmage control. The defense gave up chunk runs late. Tackling and edge integrity sagged in the fourth quarter. Detroit never flipped the script in real time and paid for it. Next up is Minnesota on Christmas Day. Does it matter? It does if the Detroit Lions want the hunt to mean anything. Start fast. Fix the third-quarter lull. Secure the backside against the Vikings' rush looks. In the red zone, pick a hat on a hat and punch. All of it is on tape, as the Detroit Lions Podcast laid out. The job now is to make it look different in Minneapolis. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujTq6e7WSVA #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #third-quartervanish #red-zoneregret #firstandgoalatthe1 #clock-chewingdrive #runfitsandassignments #backsideendunaccounted #h-backmotion #alexhighsmith #anthonyfirkserinthebackfield #pullingguardreach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Tuesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to receiver DK Metcalf's two-game suspension for an altercation with a fan last week in Detroit. Was the suspension length fair? What impact will it have on OC Arthur Smith, QB Aaron Rodgers and pass catchers including Adam Thielen, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Calvin Austin III, Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? And could Metcalf's absence ultimately cost the Steelers the AFC North title and a playoff spot? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how coach Mike Tomlin and key players including Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Alex Highsmith, Jack Sawyer, Keeanu Benton and others have improved the team's run defense. Even in the absence of T.J. Watt. 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 16 with the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. This show is presented by FanDuel. Were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Adam Thielen, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell, Pat Freiermuth and the offense able to maintain momentum for OC Arthur Smith? How did Alex Highsmith, Jack Sawyer and the outside linebackers manage with T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig both out injured? And how did Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey and the rest of coach Mike Tomlin's defense deal with Detroit's numerous playmakers, including Jameson Williams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs and Jared Good? 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 react to an NFL Week 16 victory against the Detroit Lions. Did coach Mike Tomlin's team prove it is built for late-season and NFL playoffs success after beating the potent Lions offense led by Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs and Amon-Ra St. Brown? Why were Alex Highsmith, Jack Sawyer, Derrick Harmon, Cam Heyward and the run defense able to have so much success against Gibbs? How much of a strength is the running game becoming on offense. With Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell finding huge holes even behind a patchwork offensive line? And is this an identity that can be maintained in the coming weeks? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders DK Metcalf's altercation with a fan in the stands at Ford Field. Could the NFL suspend him? And if so, what impact would that have on QB Aaron Rodgers and a passing game that's hit its stride the past few weeks with names like Adam Thielen, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Scotty Miller in the mix? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the injury updates of TJ Watt, Nick Herbig, Isaac Seumalo and James Pierre. We also discuss if there is a move to be made to help out with the team's OLB injury issues such as adding Matthew Judon. What did Alex Highsmith say about the unique challenges presented by the Detroit Lions' aggressive nature? Does it matter who is leading the snap count between Kenny Gainwell and Jaylen Warren? Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live around 5 p.m. Eastern, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts live to the Steelers' NFL Week 15 win against the Miami Dolphins at Acrisure Stadium. Specifically, he weighs in on Aaron Rodgers' recent performance and what it could mean in the coming weeks. Is Rodgers proving he still has the ability to win when the NFL playoffs roll around? Can his downfield passing success with pass catchers including DK Metcalf, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kenneth Gainwell and Pat Freiermuth continue? Is he finally mastering OC Arthur Smith's offense after some midseason struggles? Or is he simply taking advantage of bad and mediocre teams like the Dolphins and Ravens? Paul tackles those questions, then ponders what we saw from Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Asante Samuel Jr., Alex Highsmith and the defense with star T.J. Watt absent. 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 and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Noah Hiles welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the NFL Week 15 Monday Night Football victory against the Miami Dolphins. How much credit do coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith deserve for this team's most complete victory of the season? What adjustments did Smith make to get Aaron Rodgers, Kenneth Gainwell, DK Metcalf, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and the offense on track after a shaky first 25 minutes? Why was Tomlin more aggressive in going for fourth downs with the Connor Heyward tush pus? Is Gainwell becoming the offense's most dangerous weapon? And how did Cam Heyward, Alex Highsmith, Patrick Queen, Jalen Ramsey and the defense clamp down on De'Von Achane and the Dolphins running game after struggles the past two weeks against James Cook and the Bills and Derrick Henry and the Ravens? Especially without T.J. Watt? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Then later, the guys ponder this team's NFL playoffs chances and the ability of "castoffs" including Valdes-Scantling, Asante Samuel Jr. and Kyle Dugger to give it the boost that it needs come January. 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 15 Monday Night Football win against the Miami Dolphins at Acrisure Stadium. Was this the most complete effort of the season from coach Mike Tomlin's team? Why was QB Aaron Rodgers have able to have so much success in the passing game with receivers including DK Metcalf, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Pat Freiermuth? How important has running back Kenneth Gainwell become to the offense with Jaylen Warren battling some nagging injuries? What Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Alex Highsmith and the defense prove in the absence of T.J. Watt? And what does this win mean for the AFC North race against the Baltimore Ravens? 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 15 with the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football. This show is presented by FanDuel. Were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Adam Thielen, Maquez Valdes-Scantling, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth able to maintain their momentum in the passing game? Did Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell find more room to run? How did Jalen Ramsey, Cam Heyward, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and the defense navigate the loss of T.J. Watt to injury? What does Watt's absence mean for this team long term? And does coach Mike Tomlin still have his Monday night magic? 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.

Hour 4 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: The Steelers are 1-11 without T.J. Watt, but Brooke thinks the Steelers are in a much better spot with Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig than earlier in the season. The Steelers are officially adding Marquez Valdes-Scantling to the 53-man roster. The Penguins lost back to back games in overtime and were up by multiple goals in the third period in both games.

Send us a textWill T.J. Watt Be Ready? Lung Issue Crisis Ahead of Steelers vs Dolphins MNF PreviewWelcome to the Steelers Realm Podcast! The 7-6 Steelers are hosting the 6-7 Dolphins on Monday Night Football in a vital Week 15 playoff eliminator.The focus is entirely on the devastating breaking news: T.J. Watt is hospitalized with a lung issue, and his status is IN QUESTION. His absence could turn a manageable defensive matchup into a complete disaster.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from Thursday's practice at the team's facility ahead of its NFL Week 15 matchup with the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football. They start by breaking down the news that star outside linebacker T.J. Watt was in the hospital Thursday while being evaluated for a lung condition. While Watt's availability and status are up in the air, what will the Steelers defense look like if he can't go? Are Nick Herbig and Alex Highsmith prepared to step into that role? What about rookie Jack Sawyer? Who can help fill gaps as the Steelers prepare to face De'Von Achane and the strong Dolphins run game? What's with this streak of facing some of the NFL's best rushing attacks? And what is Derrick Harmon's status, as he revealed Thursday he's dealing with the same knee that caused him to miss games early in the season but a different injury? 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.

Chris Hoke would keep Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig next year. He is worried about Highsmith's health but plays tough in the run and is a relentless player. Joe thinks the Ravens are broken, but Hokie thinks the Ravens should have won and are dangerous.

Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: The Steelers offense is heavily dependent on Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers defense allows 100 more yards rushing per game when Derrick Harmon is not on the field. Chris Hoke would keep Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig next year. Joe thinks the Ravens are broken, but Hokie thinks the Ravens should have won and are dangerous.

On the Wednesday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter to sort through the team's issues with run defense. Who are the proverbial squeaky wheels up front right now? Can Patrick Queen do a better job of finishing plays? Is Keeanu Benton showing enough positive signs in his third season? Or is consistency an issue for him right now? How is fifth-round NFL draft pick Yahya Black performing, relative to expectations and amid numerous injuries up front to names like Derrick Harmon? And what tweaks can coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin make schematically to set Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Co, up for more success? Our duo tackles those questions and more, then analyzes the deep passing success vs. Baltimore. Was OC Arthur Smith most responsible for calling a better game? Or was the execution simply better from QB Aaron Rodgers and top receiver DK Metcalf? Where do Adam Thielen and Marquez Valdes-Scantling fit into this passing game when it's clicking moving forward? Will they see heavy targets or remain in the background? What does the future hold for Roman Wilson after is benching? And what role should RBs Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell have in the passing game down the stretch after major contributions against the Ravens? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textDK Metcalf GOES OFF for 146 Yards in Steelers Win: Week 14 RecapIt is Victory Monday in Pittsburgh! DK Metcalf finally went nuclear in black and gold, delivering a season-high 148 receiving yards to torch the Ravens' secondary and secure a massive 27-22 victory!The Steelers are back in sole possession of first place in the AFC North!We break down the key stats from Metcalf's dominant performance and the chaotic rivalry win:Metcalf's Explosion: Hauled in 7 receptions for 148 yards, including a 52-yard bomb on the opening play, setting the tone for the offense.Rodgers Resurgence: Aaron Rodgers threw for 284 yards with 0 sacks, utilizing Metcalf perfectly to win.Controversy: Discuss the controversial overturned Isaiah Likely touchdown (ruled incomplete by Joey Porter Jr.) that saved the game late in the 4th quarter.The Gutsy TD: Analyze Jaylen Warren's 38-yard catch-and-run TD on 3rd down.The Problem: Address the glaring 217-34 rushing yard disparity the Steelers somehow overcame.This was a character-defining win that puts the Steelers in the driver's seat. Don't miss our full analysis!Hit the LIKE button and SUBSCRIBE for the full Victory Monday celebration!TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Show Open & DK Metcalf's Dominant Performance1:45 - The 148-Yard Outburst: Why Did It Take So Long?5:30 - WHO'S DRINKING WINE

Week 15 victory against the AFC North rival Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. What should we make of the defense's performance after it got timely stops but allowed Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry to pile up big rushing totals? Have T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Alex Highsmith and Co. turned a corner? Or does coach Mike Tomlin's unit still have work to do? Did officials get it right on two key calls that benefitted the Steelers? Including one that reversed an Isaiah Likely touchdown thanks to a heads up play by Joey Porter Jr.? Can Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Calvin Austin III maintain the momentum they established in the passing game? And are the Steelers now clear division favorites? 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 react to an important NFL Week 14 victory against the Baltimore Ravens. Specifically, they ponder the success of the deep passing game. How did QB Aaron Rodgers get it back on track with the help of pass catchers including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? How sustainable is this success the rest of the way as coach Mike Tomlin's team and OC Arthur Smith's unit looks to clinch the AFC North? How much improvement can the offense still make? And what impact will injuries to tackles Broderick Jones and Andrus Peat make? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks defense. How did coach Mike Tomlin's defense contain Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry in the running game compared to the games in Baltimore last season? Why do Alex Highsmith and T.J. Watt deserve a lot of credit for stepping up amid injuries to Malik Harrison and Derrick Harmon? What role did cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr., James Pierre and Brandin Echols play? And why was Patrick Queen quietly one of the unit's more effective players? 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 have a practice report from the team's facility ahead of its NFL Week 14 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. What should we make of recent roster moves? Will Darius Slay be missed in the secondary? How well will Asante Samuel Jr. fill his spot on the roster? Where does veteran Adam Thielen fit into a receivers room that includes DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and Marquez Valdes-Scantling? And how are T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Yahya Black and other front-seven members working to improve the run defense that was shredded last week by James Cook and the Buffalo Bills? 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 T.J. Watt's recent play ahead of an NFL Week 14 matchup with the AFC North rival Baltimore Ravens. Is Watt's play as bad as his critics seem to think? Or has he been better than he's given credit for with sky-high expectations? Are his most dominant days behind him? Or is he reliant on teammates including Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon around him to find room to make plays? And what does the Steelers defense need from him to reach the NFL playoffs? Our duo ponders those questions plus OC Arthur Smith's tight end usage. Why has Pat Freiermuth's role been so diminished? Is Jonnu Smith getting more playing time for valid reasons? Or is he just Smith's personal favorite? Why should the pass catching pecking order be behind DK Metcalf for names like Freiermuth, Smith, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and Darnell Washington? And to what extent have the TEs failed to live up to preseason expectations? 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.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the latest injury updates surrounding Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward, Alex Highsmith and Joey Porter Jr. We also dive into if it makes sense to just roll with Mason Rudolph moving forward. What has led to the defensive disappointment that has taken place this season? What major moves can be made to ensure this doesn't happen again in 2026? Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Ray gives it a 65% chance that Aaron Rodgers plays on Sunday. He likes the safety situation now with Jalen Ramsey looking very comfortable. Alex Highsmith is likely going to have to deal with his pec injury the rest of the year. Ray predicts the Steelers to win, but to miss the playoffs!

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the latest injury report as the Steelers begin to prepare for the Chicago Bears. Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren and Alex Highsmith all returned to practice in a limited capacity. We also discuss if the team needs to pay extra attention to ball security against the team leading the league in takeaways, who that may favor and how the Bears' results may be a mirage. We also discuss what to make of Broderick Jones' play and the course of action they should take contract wise. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the latest injury report as the Steelers begin to prepare for the Chicago Bears. Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren and Alex Highsmith all missed practice. Cory Trice Jr. wasn't activated off of IR, thus ending his 2025 season and putting his future with the team in serious jeopardy. We also touch on the unique relationship between Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph and what has allowed Rudolph to excel in this role. Finally, Alan once again goes off on PFF and the way people use and discuss their data. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss what came of Mike Tomlin's weekly availability. He updated us on injuries of Alex Highsmith, Aaron Rodgers, Darius Slay, Jaylen Warren and others. He also said Darius Slay will resume his starting CB duties, but James Pierre will stay in the mix. What has led to Aaron Rodgers' declining play over the last few weeks, even prior to injury? What does he bring to the table that Mason Rudolph doesn't and vice versa? Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.

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.

Bryant McFadden joins the show. He and Mullsy He says he needs Pittsburgh to win and says 30-24 Steelers win and the players of the game will be TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig will be the difference makers. Luckily for him, he does not have his nipples on the line.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: Ray doesn't think that Darius Slay will play Sunday. Alex Highsmith hasn't practiced this week and is questionable. Jon Gruden thinks Will Howard is going to be a good QB but Ray thinks that you can't get away from a QB you might like high in the draft. The numbers that matter in Bengals-Steelers in The Numbers Game!

Ray doesn't think that Darius Slay will play Sunday. Alex Highsmith hasn't practiced this week and is questionable. Jon Gruden thinks Will Howard is going to be a good QB but Ray thinks that you can't get away from a QB you might like high in the draft.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss Alex Highsmith missing a second consecutive practice and Nick Herbig being in line to start against the Cincinnati Bengals. We talked about Teryl Austin talking about having to be careful to not overcorrect in the same way they did in their first matchup when Chase Brown got going on the ground. We also touch on playing inverted Cover-2, different ways to use personnel and much more. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broderick Jones popped up on the injury report, but seemed to be precautionary. Alex Highsmith has a pec injury and is the third injury Highsmith has suffered this year. Paul Skenes thinks the Pirates need to get back to the gritty, blue collar nature of what Pittsburgh is. Jeff thinks that this is the Paul Skenes the team needs to speak out and be a voice for change.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise evaluates the Steelers' coaching staff amid the team's recent funk of three losses in the past four games. Does coach Mike Tomlin deserve the most criticism for the team's performance? Or some credit for the defense's recent turnaround? What is OC Arthur Smith's level of blame as his unit has regressed? With stars Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf suffering the biggest dips in performance? And where does DC Teryl Austin fit into the equation? With T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and the pass rush surging. But Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay and others creating questions in the secondary? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the team having a lengthy DNP list for their first practice of the week, including the likes of Alex Highsmith & Broderick Jones. Asante Samuel Jr. spoke to the media for the first time and talked about his procedure and said he feels like he's as healthy as he's been in his NFL career. We also touched on how cool it is to see James Pierre playing at a high level when given the opportunity to do so. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to news that the Steelers are signing free agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to their practice squad. What can the veteran bring to the struggling secondary? Will he fit well alongside names like Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay, Jalen Ramsey, Brandin Echols and James Pierre? Will his coverage help names like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig generate more pressure on QBs up front? Can Samuel help coach Mike Tomlin's defense stop tough passing threats, beginning this week with an NFL Week 11 rematch against the Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and the Cincinnati Bengals? And does this move make up for GM Omar Khan's lack of action at the NFL trade deadline? Paul tackles those questions and more on the offensive side, where Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and others are looking for more success. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter welcomes enterprise reporter Noah Hiles to sort through the team's NFL Week 10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Is 41-year-old QB Aaron Rodgers hitting a wall after his rough performance? Or did he just have a bad night? And what does he need to do to be more productive with his pass catchers. DK Metcalf in particular after his own quiet night. But also depth options including Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith? Our duo tackles those topics, then talks defense. Are the changes coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin have made in the past couple of weeks working? From shifting Jalen Ramsey to safety to deploying James Pierre more at corner alongside Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay and Brandin Echols? And will T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Payton Wilson, Patrick Queen, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig have more answers with a rematch against the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals looming in Week 11? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo give their practice report ahead of an NFL Week 10 matchup with the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. How much credit do coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin deserve for adjusting to a simplified defenses for the win against the Colts? With safeties Jabrill Peppers, DeShon Elliott and Chuck Clark out injured? Did it help Kyle Dugger's integration into the defense? And could similar adjustments help T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Payton Wilson and Alex Highsmith this week as they face a tough challenge from Justin Herbert, Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey and the potent Chargers passing attack? Our duo tackles those questions; emphasizes the need to slow the Chargers' running game; and checks in on Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense as they look to extend drives. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the latest on the injury front with both Alex Highsmith and Darnell Washington returning to practice. We also discuss what Teryl Austin had to say about Kyle Dugger jumping on the train and Artie Smith had to say in regard to Roman Wilson's fumble. We then discuss where exactly this team should sit in the pecking order of the AFC and if we believe they have their offensive line of the future. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arthur Smith said they are trying to get Roman Wilson to not leave his feet. Alex Highsmith was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Arturs Silovs will start against the Capitals. Should the Pirates sign JT Realmuto? Joe and Austin think he could be a Russell Martin type.

Hour 3 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Mark Kaboly said that Calvin Austin and Roman Wilson are not far off from Jakobi Meyers. Marquez Valdes-Scantling said Aaron Rodgers is the reason he is with the Steelers. Alex Highsmith was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Arturs Silovs will start against the Capitals. Should the Pirates sign JT Realmuto? Joe and Austin think he could be a Russell Martin type.

Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise analyzes the Steelers' defense ahead of its NFL Week 10 matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Have coach Mike Tomlin and DC Teryl Austin made enough adjustments for the defense to perform better against a potent passing attack led by Justin Herbert and Ladd McConkey than it did against Joe Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase and the Bengals? Or Jordan Love, Tucker Kraft and the Packers? Will Jalen Ramsey's move to safety continue to pay off? How much pressure can he and new acquisition Kyle Dugger take off corners like Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr.? And will the rush continue to get home with names like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Payton Wilson, Nick Herbig and others? Paul tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss all things Pittsburgh Steelers. On today's episode, we discuss the team bringing in Asante Samuel Jr. for a visit next week. Where and how does he fit? Alex Highsmith and Darnell Washington missed practice today, sounding alarm bells for Steelers fans. Marquez Valdes-Scantling talked about Aaron Rodgers being the reason he decided to join the team. Let's go for another Steelers Afternoon Drive and discuss all this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo reacts to the team's NFL Week 9 victory against the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. Why do linebackers T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Payton Wilson deserve the most credit for the defense's dominant day, which included six forced turnovers against Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor, Tyler Warren and a Colts offense that entered the game producing at a historic pace? Was the offense a concern in gaining less than 300 yards? Or did Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth prove how dangerous they can be if other teams make mistakes? Did Kyle Dugger show how valuable he can be to this defense in his Steelers debut at safety? And what moves might GM Omar Khan have up his sleeve before the NFL trade deadline? Could he add a No. 2 receiver? Or did Sunday prove that there's not much room for another big name beyond Metcalf in this tight end-heavy offense? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the NFL Week 9 victory against the Indianapolis Colts. Can T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Jalen Ramsey and coach Mike Tomlin's defense repeat their dominance of Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor, Tyler Warren at the potent Colts offense? Or will they backslide like they have at times earlier this season? Why was stopping the run with names like Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson they key to getting pressure on Jones and forcing him into turnovers generated by the likes of Jack Sawyer and Joey Porter Jr.? And what impact did new acquisition Kyle Dugger have on the game? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders how Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth, Cavlin Austin III, Darnell Washington and OC Arthur Smith's offense can improve after they scored enough points to win but miss capitalizing on some opportunities. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Steelers Morning Rush, our new daily short-form podcast with Alan Saunders, giving a longer perspective on a single news topic surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers or the National Football League. Today, it's the performance of outside linebacker Alex Highsmith in the team's 27-20 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. Highsmith had four tackles, three for a loss, one sack, one quarterback hit and a pass defended in the victory -- his best performance of the season. The noise has been loud over the past few weeks as Highsmith returned from injury and returned to his starting role, while pushing Nick Herbig down the depth chart. Highsmith proved his value this week. Alan breaks it down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise react LIVE to the Steelers' NFL Week 9 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. This show is presented by FanDuel. Were Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr., Brandin Echols and new acquisition Kyle Dugger able to improve in pass defense against the potent Colts attack led by Daniel Jones, Michael Pittman, Tyler Warren and Alex Pierce? How did T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and Keeanu Benton manage in run defense against explosive back Jonathan Taylor? And were Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and the offense able to keep up with one of the hottest offenses in the NFL? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.