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Around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette columnist Paul Zeise will go live to talk about the Steelers at the bye week. Has Aaron Rodgers fully developed chemistry with his Steelerss teammates, especially DK Metcalf? How far can he take this offense as he gets more comfortable playing in 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.
Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette columnist Paul Zeise will talk about the status of the Steelers at the bye week. How good can this defense led by T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey and Co. be when at full strength with the likes of Alex Highsmith ? 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 her Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, Post-Gazette insider Abby Schnable welcomes Panthers freshman Izzy Masten. Izzy talks about the reasons she decided to graduate high school early and the ways she's had to adjust to collegiate, high-level volleyball. Izzy also talks about her role so far this season, as she's made waves from the service line and even made "SportsCenter" with one of her many defensive plays. Izzy also gives her takeaways from Pitt's season so far and gives her keys to a successful rest of the season. 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 looks at the state of the AFC and why the Steelers have an actual shot to win the whole conference. Will injuries to Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson essentially hand the AFC North to the Steelers? Just how scary are the Chiefs, Bills and others? 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 edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder the sustainability of some standout performances from the NFL Week 4 win against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. Can names like DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell, Nick Herbig and Payton Wilson keep producing as they did Sunday? Why was OC Arthur Smith able to get the running game going with Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson? What will happen to the receiver group if Calvin Austin III is forced to miss time while injured? When will Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith get more involved in the offense? Where is coach Mike Tomlin's team fitting into the AFC Noth race? And how impactful is DeShon Elliott within DC Teryl Austin's defense? 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 seventh week of the football season, Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White examine the subject of WPIAL teams looking for mercy. Also, exactly who is the No. 1 team in Class 4A? Anyone? It's time to say who the top 10 teams are in the first 25 years of this century. Trinity's Jonah Williamson and Hempfield's Dom Detruf are shining stars. While "Famous" Amos Glenn of Freeport scores big in the Post-Gazette Fantasy League. The guys also predict top games, including Montour at New Castle, Norwin at Hempfield, South Fayette at Upper St. Clair and Moon at Peters Township. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Bob Nutting called this full season unacceptable, but is bringing back Travis Williams and Ben Cherington. Noah doesn't understand how Cherington and Williams are back. Multiple players were outspoken about the team and players went out of their way to let him know how bad things went. Noah thinks the Pirates will trade Mitch Keller and likely be an underwhelming return.
Post-Gazette insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable tackle the biggest questions around Pitt football following an ugly loss to Louisville over the weekend. Does coach Pat Narduzzi have a QB controversy on his hands amid Eli Holstein's recent struggles? When could we see more of Cole Gonzales or Mason Heinstchel? What's the plan at left guard after Kieth Goueva went down with a season-ending injury? And what should fans make of concerning quotes from the Cardinals' D'Angelo Hutchinson and co-DC Ron English about facing Pitt and what worked for them in their Acrisure Stadium victory? 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, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo to react to the Steelers' NFL Week 4 victory against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. Did coach Mike Tomlin's team establish its desired identity in stopping Jordan Mason and the Vikings running game; getting heave pressure on QB Carson Wentz with T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton, Patrick Queen and others; and achieving success in the running game wit Kaleb Johnson and especially surprise starter Kenneth Gainwell, who filled in admirably for Jaylen Warren? Do we still need to see more from the passing game? Especially TEs Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith after Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf seemed to get their connection going on Sunday? And how will this team navigate injuries in the secondary to names like Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions, plus storylines to watch during the upcoming off week. Where can coordinators Arthur Smith and Teryl Austin make the biggest adjustments? Will the Ravens continue their early struggles? Or will they start making up ground on the Steelers in the AFC North after a brutal early-season schedule? And are the Colts and Jaguars emerging as threats in the AFC? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Bucco Brew Powered by De Fer Coffee & Tea. The North Shore Nine crew dives into the Post-Gazette's hard-hitting story on the Pirates' frustrating 2025 season—spotlighting Paul Skenes' pointed comments, Bob Nutting's ownership decisions, and the growing calls for Ben Cherington's job. We break down the best quotes and what they mean for the front office, the clubhouse, and the future of the franchise. To lighten things up, we also take on Alex Stumpf's year-end Sporcle challenge, trying to name all 57 Pirates who suited up this season—with plenty of laughs and a few surprises along the way. Noah Hiles' article: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2025/09/29/mlb-pirates-bob-nutting-ben-cherington-paul-skenes-andrew-mccutchen/stories/202509290003 Presented by Fanduel Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myspreadshop.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Don Kelly AND Ben Cherington will speak to the media at 3:30 p.m. This makes us believe Cherington will be here next year. Bob Nutting said this season was "unacceptable." Will Ben Cherington still be here?? Noah Hiles had a great story in the Post-Gazette today where an anonymous Pirates player called out the Pirates for not spending and saying that you get what you pay for.
Insider coverage of the Pittsburgh Steelers from the Post-Gazette insiders who know them best: Gerry Dulac, Ray Fittipaldo, Brian Batko, Christopher Carter, Jason Mackey and Paul Zeise. From Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense. To T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Cam Heyward and coach Mike Tomlin's defense. They have the up-close view of the team that you can only get from the Post-Gazette. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
On the Thursday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by FanDuel and Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to react to comments by former Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger fearing that Mike Tomlin, OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin could be outcoached in the NFL Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland. How much stock should fans put in Roethlisberger's comments as someone who knows the team well? Does he have a justified lack in faith in Tomlin and Co.? Or is he simply impressed by names like Kevin O'Connell and Brian Flores in Minnesota? And how much should his thoughts on Broderick Jones and the offensive line concern the fan base? Our duo tackles those questions. Then Jason gives his exclusive scoop on the scene in Dublin ahead of the game. 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 break down the team's five-set win over No. 11 SMU on Wednesday night. How important was it for Pitt to get off on the right foot during ACC play? How did reigning AVCA National Player of the Year Olivia Babcock step up to lead the Panthers to victory? How was Brooke Mosher able to continue her impressive streak against the Mustangs? What areas, like unforced errors and defensive intensity, can the Panthers fix before the two teams face off again on Sunday in Pittsburgh? Abby and Cat answer those questions, plus break down the top players in a loaded ACC position by position. 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 regular season is at the halfway point, and Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White turn professor and give out mid-term grades for student (player) of the half year, teacher (coach) of the half year and more. Peters Township's Reston Lehman and Lucas Shanafelt get their flowers, but so does Upper St. Clair's Ethan Hellmann. South Allegheny's Brian Hanson and Norwin's Mike Brown get shutouts for their coaching jobs in the first half. Also, Matt Sieg set a touchdown record last week, so where should he stand among great WPIAL players? Our duo make their picks for the Post-Gazette Fantasy League, and make predictions on this week's top six games – Upper St. Clair at Peters Township, Central Catholic at North Allegheny, North Catholic at Imani Christian, Aliquippa at New Castle, Bethel Park at Moon and Westinghouse vs. Allderdice in the Pittsburgh City League. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio 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 edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey and insider Ray Fittipaldo gauge the Steelers' growth through three games. Is coach Mike Tomlin's defense improving, even if it's still giving up too many yards? How encouraged should we be that T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward produced like the stars they're supposed to be in NFL Week 3 against the New England Patriots? Is RB Jaylen Warren's elevated role in the offense a good thing? Do he and fellow RB Kenneth Gainwell have any chance for success behind a struggling offensive line that includes Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? Have those guys shown progress themselves? And what did we learn about DBs Jaylen Ramsey and Jabrill Peppers in facing Drake Maye and the Patriots? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/audio 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 regular season is at the halfway point, and Post-Gazette high school insiders Keith Barnes and Mike White turn professor and give out mid-term grades for student (player) of the half year, teacher (coach) of the half year and more. Peters Township's Reston Lehman and Lucas Shanafelt get their flowers, but so does Upper St. Clair's Ethan Hellmann. South Allegheny's Brian Hanson and Norwin's Mike Brown get shutouts for their coaching jobs in the first half. Also, Matt Sieg set a touchdown record last week, so where should he stand among great WPIAL players? Our duo make their picks for the Post-Gazette Fantasy League, and make predictions on this week's top six games – Upper St. Clair at Peters Township, Central Catholic at North Allegheny, North Catholic at Imani Christian, Aliquippa at New Castle, Bethel Park at Moon and Westinghouse vs. Allderdice in the Pittsburgh City League. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 3 matchup with the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Were Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Keeanu Benton, Jalen Ramsey and coach Mike Tomlin's defense able to bounce back after a couple of rough outings to open the season? Did Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu perform better up front? What chemistry was QB Aaron Rodgers able to establish with receivers including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith? And where do the team stand with high-profile matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Ireland looming next week? 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 Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to ponder the future of Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi after the Panthers' Backyard Brawl loss to West Virginia. Should Narduzzi's job be in jeopardy after dropping such a winnable rivalry game? What are AD Allen Greene's options realistic options considering Narduzzi's sizable buyout? And how much is Pitt's casual fan base a problem in terms of building a sustainable program? Our duo tackles those questions, the impact Desmond Reid's injury could have on QB Eli Holstein and OC Kade Bell's offense and the top storylines we're following with an eye toward ACC play next 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 sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to gauge the Cy Young Award chances of Pirates ace Paul Skenes. Does he have the award locked up on the National League side? With only Detroit's Tarik Skubal coming close to matching his production on the American League side? How badly would a Cy Young in a losing season for Skenes reflect on owner Bob Nutting, GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly? Have the Pirates as a club taken Skenes' greatness for granted, in a strong rotation that also includes Mitch Keller? And what level of pressure is on Cherington and Kelly amid the team's latest losing skid? 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to analyze the Steelers' recurring communication issues. How much blame does coach Mike Tomlin deserve for them? Are they becoming a stale excuse for him? Is his scheme the problem considering they've persisted after names like Minkah Fitzpatrick and Donte Jackson were swapped out for guys like Jalen Ramsey, Juan Thornhill and Darius Slay Jr. this offseason? Or does Tomlin need another assistant to help sort these issues out? Our guys tackle those questions, as well as T.J. Watt's lack of sacks through two games. Are those excusing the production by citing his pressure rate using the same arguments they've dismissed about Myles Garrett's performance with the Cleveland Browns for years? Should those pressures eventually open up opportunities to Jack Sawyer, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig to finish plays? And how much should Watt's gaudy offseason contract be part of the conversation? 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 Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to recap the non-conference portion of Penn State football's 2025 schedule and look ahead toward Big Ten Conference play. Did we learn anything about coach James Franklin's squad against outmatched Nevada, Florida International and Villanova teams? Would we have liked to see more from Drew Allar through three games? Is Dani Dennis-Sutton primed for an Abdul Carter-like season? And are receivers Kyron Hudson, Devonte Ross and Trebor Pena; tight end Luke Reynolds; and pass rusher Chaz Coleman the most encouraging surprises so far? 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 high school sports insider Matt Press interviews Quaker Valley girls soccer Annabel Miko, the PG's WPIAL athlete of the week. He gets her thoughts on recently scoring her 50th-career goal; her commitment to the Delaware Blue Hens for college and the recruitment process; winning last year's WPIAL championship; and the similarities and differences between high school and academy games. 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 takes stock of the AFC North after two weeks of action in the 2025 NFL season. How does the picture change now that the Bengals have lost QB Joe Burrow for at least a couple of months? Are the Ravens now a runaway favorite? Or did the loss by Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and Co. versus Buffalo in NFL Week 1 show that Baltimore is still a flawed team? Can coach Kevin Stefanski turn the Browns around? Or is he in over his head with Joe Flacco and rookies Dillion Gabriel and Shedeuer Sanders as his option at QB? And where do Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers fit into the conversation? Paul tackles those questions, plus offers reaction to Penguins GM Kyle Dubas speaking about Sidney Crosby's future in Pittsburgh. 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 Pirates mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: Should they commence a search for a new hitting coach this offseason after a lackluster first year from Matt Hague? What are the chances either Mitch Keller or Bryan Reynolds — or both — is traded this offseason? Now that top prospect Bubba Chandler is in the major league rotation, will he be there out of next season's spring training, too? Which player should fans be most excited for in 2026? And what current minor leaguers could actually help Don Kelly's club win next season? Noah 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 high school sports insider Keith Barnes interviews Beaver Area quarterback Travis Clear, who was named the PG's WPIAL and Pittsburgh City League athlete of the week for his standout performance again Hopewell. Travis explains how he passed for a WPIAL-leading 391 yards and a pair of touchdowns to life his team a thrilling 51-50 victory that kept it in the mix in Class 3A. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise ponders the Steelers' recent past at the quarterback position. Would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have been better off drafting current Patriots QB Drake Maye -- their opponent in NFL Week 3 -- or another young QB like Bryce Young, Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, or C.J. Stroud? Even if it had meant losing seasons following the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger at the end of 2021? And how much better would it be for their long-term future if 2025 turns out to be a rough season with 41-yard-old Aaron Rodgers ahead of a promising QB class the could include names like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Cade Klubnik, Garrett Nussmeier and LaNorris Sellers? Paul tackles those questions and the latest news from practice this week, which could include the return of first-round NFL draft pick Derrick Harmon from injury to bolster Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Yahya Black and the struggling defensive line. 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, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey and insider Ray Fittipaldo sort through blame for the Steelers' defensive struggles through the first two games of 2025. Are coach Mike Tomlin and position assistant Karl Dunbar most to blame for the defensive line's ineffectiveness, particularly against the run? Or do Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Isaiahh Loudermilk and Yahya Black need to step up amid the injury to Derrick Harmon? Our duo tackles those questions and more defensive issues. Are defenses picking on Jalen Ramsey? And should fans be worried about T.J. Watt's lack of stats? The guys also ponder some offensive topics. Are Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu in an early-season slump? Or are the experiencing something worse? What should Tomlin do with Kaleb Johnson after his enormous kickoff gaffe? And does Arthur Smith's distribution of carries for Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren make any sense? 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 offers his thoughts on the struggles of the Steelers defense through the first two weeks of the NFL season. Specifically, he ponders the concern level regarding T.J. Watt not having a sack yet in 2025. Can the Steelers' defense be its best if he isn't making disruptive plays? How much have the defensive line's struggles in the absence of Derrick Harmon hindered him? Do Keeanu Benton, Cam Heyward, Yahya Black and others need to step things up for Watt to be the best version of himself? How much will the Alex Highsmith injury potentially hurt Watt by allowing defenses to focus on stopping him more? And can Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer step up enough to fill that void for coach Mike Tomlin's defense? Paul tackles those questions and the latest headlines from Tomlin's weekly news conference. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 2 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks, the home opener at Acrisure Stadium. Were Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth and Jonne Smith able to maintain momentum in the passing game? Was Broderick Jones able to get back on track at left tackle? How did Zach Frazier, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick look? Especially in run blocking for backs like Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson? On the defensive side, were Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Keeanu Benton and Payton Wilson better able to contain the opposing running game? And how did Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr. and the new-look secondary perform in the absence of injured CB Joey Porter Jr. and 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 high school sports insiders Mike White and Keith Barnes recap a busy week of football news around the WPIAL and Pittsburgh City League. What should we make of Shady Side Academy's injury situation a week after forfeiting in controversial fashion against Clairton? Is Aliquippa championship material once again in Class 4A? What should we make of a key rule change for students at faith-based schools? What are small schools like Monessen, Avella and Cornell having success so far in 2025? And why is offense up across the district so far? Our duo tackles those questions; spotlights James Armstrong of Hopewell and Jeffery Thompson of Clairton as shining stars; and previews the games of the week between Hopewell and Avonworth; North Allegheny and Norwin; South Allegheny and South Park; Monessen and Fort Cherry; Ringgold and Southmoreland; and Avella and California 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 Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to ponder Penn State's progress through the first two weeks of the season. Have coach James Franklin's Nittany Lions proven anything yet? Is there anything they can show against Villanova that they haven't against Florida International and Nevada? Does Franklin deserve criticism for the soft schedule? And is Oregon in a few weeks the only test that matters? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Among them: Are Devonte Ross, Kyron Hudson and Trebor Pena the best trio of receivers the program has had in a while? Where does Drew Allar rank among NFL draft QB hopefuls like Clemson's Cade Klubnik, LSU's Garrett Nussmeier and LaNorris Sellers? Can we expect more dominance from Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton? And how is Penn State figuring into the College Football Playoff national title conversation alongside names like Oregon, Ohio State and LSU?
Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to sort through the controversy surrounding the future of the Backyard Brawl rivalry between Pitt and West Virginia. Who shares more blame for the future for the series going on hiatus? Pat Narduzzi, Allen Greene and the Panthers? Or Rich Rodriguez, Wren Baker and the Mountaineers? Would both teams benefit from some non-conference scheduling flexibility? Or should this game be played every year? And how should College Football Playoff resume conversations influence the conversation? Our duo tackles those questions and more before the teams square off Saturday. How much pressure will Narduzzi be under if Pitt loses the game as a 7.5-point favorite? How encouraged should fans be by a possible 3-0 start for the Panthers? And who will prove to be the hero for Pitt on Saturday? Eli Holstein? Braylan Lovelace? Desmond Reid? Or someone else?
On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to analyze which young Steelers are under the most pressure to prove themselves heading into NFL Week 2 against the Seattle Seahawks? Can Roman Wilson finally generate some production behind DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III after a quiet Week 1 and a lost rookie season in 2024? Will Darnell Washington emerge as advertised next to Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith at tight end? What's going on with Payton Wilson? And when will he live up to his self-proclaimed potential as the best cover linebacker in the NFL? And what are reasonable improvements Broderick Jones can make at left tackle after a disastrous Week 1? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes the differences Aaron Rodgers at QB and Jalen Ramsey at CB have made to their respective units. And whether Ramsey is bringing a different attitude to his defense than did Minkah Fitzpatrick, the guy who was traded for Ramsey before training camp.
Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to analyze the future of Henry Davis and other young players with the Pirates. Is Henry Davis still a viable candidate to be the club's catcher of the future? Or are his struggles at the plate to profound to overcome in his time share with Joey Bart? Will any of Nick Yorke, Cam Devanney, Liover Peguero or Ji-Hwan Bae appear on the opening day roster next season? What should GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly do with Oneil Cruz amid his continued underachievement? Where should Cherington be planning to allocate his free agent dollars for 2026? And where do names like Denis Santana, Braxton Ashcraft and Bubba Chandler fit into the future bullpen mix? Our duo tackles those questions and more.
Post-Gazette insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo give their Steelers practice report from the team's UPMC Rooney Sports Complex ahead of an NFL Week 2 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks at Acrisure Stadium. Why do DC Teryl Austin and captain Cam Heyward seem optimistic about fixing the run defense issues that crept up against Justin Fields, Breece Hall and the New York Jets in Week 1? Can the issues be fixed without first-round NFL draft pick Derrick Harmon? And could we see more of Day 3 pick Yahya Black in the defense's next outing? The guys ponder those questions and how OC Arthur Smith can get the running game on track. From better blocking from Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and the offensive line. To Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson alongside Aaron Rodgers in the backfield.
In this episode of their Serving Up Pitt volleyball podcast, Post-Gazette insider Abby Schnable and former Panthers player Cat Flood break down the team's performances from the past week, which includes a statement sweep over No. 3 Kentucky and victories over Pepperdine and Jacksonville. Did this Pitt team announce its arrival on the national stage after beating Kentucky so handily? Have the Panthers found their footing after a rough start to the season that included two straight losses? How does this win shift their perspective in the national rankings? For the Kentucky game specifically, what does it mean for the team that it didn't have to overly rely on Olivia Babcock, as Dagmar Mourits and Blaire Bayless each also finished with at least nine kills? How are contributions from Bre Kelley and Ryla Jones helping? And what does it say about Dan Fisher's squad that it was able to hold its composure in those close sets against the Wildcats despite boasting a host of new players? Our duo answers those questions and more.
On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette insider Brian Batko welcomes Associated Press sports writer and Post-Gazette alumnus Andrew Destin to preview the Steelers' NFL Week 2 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. How will the Steelers defense, which struggled so mightily against Justin Fields and Breece Hall in Week 1, deal with the Seahawks' rushing attack, led by Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet? Are the Seahawks an offense in transition, or are they just mediocre? On the offensive side of the ball for the Steelers, how will Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and the rest of the offensive line deal with a potent Seahawks pass rush led by DeMarcus Lawrence and Derick Hall? And what are they saying about DK Metcalf in Seattle as the new Steelers receiver faces off against his old team on Sunday? Our duo answers those questions and more.
Post-Gazette high school sports insider Matt Press interviews Norwin cross country standout Annie Czajkowski after she set a 5k record for the Knights at the Red, White & Blue classic at White Oak Park. What did the record-setting performance mean to her? What's her excitement level for competing at the New Balance Nationals in Boston? What does her weekly training routine look like? What type of music does she like to listen to while she's running? And what can she tell us about her interest in baking? The duo tackles those questions and more.
Post-Gazette high school sports insider Matt Press interviews this week's WPIAL and Pittsburgh City League boys athlete of the week, Latrobe cross country runner Charlie Heese. He gets the inside scoop on how Charlie cruised to a victory at the Red, White and Blue Classic race last weekend at White Oak Park; Charlie's summer training regimen that led to his victory; the ways a wrestling background has helped Charlie in racing; and Charlie's off-track interests including his Eagle Scout project and a love of photography.
Live around 5 p.m., Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise gives his thoughts on the Steelers defense heading into its NFL Week 2 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks. Is the unit capable of a "redemption Sunday," as captain Cam Heyward vowed in recent podcast comments? Or are problems with the run defense still too glaring between the struggles of Keeanu Benton and the injury absence of first-round NFL draft pick Derrick Harmon? What should we make of the secondary with DeShon Elliott out and Jabrill Peppers entering the equation? And are Darius Slay Jr. and Jalen Ramsey adding enough for coach Mike Tomlin at the cornerback slot? Paul tackles those questions and more.
Live around 5 p.m. Eastern, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise analyzes the Steelers' offense following the NFL Week 1 victory against the New York Jets. How much potential does OC Arthur Smith's unit have after scoring 34 points in its debut? How high can new faces like Aaron Rodgers, Jonnu Smith and DK Metcalf lift the group's ceiling? Can Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and the offensive line get on the same player as the skill position players? And what are reasonable expectations for the running game led by Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson? Paul tackles those questions, plus the reported signing of safety Jabril Peppers amid an injury to safety DeShon Elliott. (46) Post-Gazette Sports (@PGSportsNow) / X
On the Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze the Steelers' outlook after the NFL Week 1 victory against the New York Jets. Should Aaron Rodgers' performance cause us to adjust expectations for coach Mike Tomlin's team? How much of the production from receivers like DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III and Jonnu Smith is sustainable in future weeks? Why did Broderick Jones struggle so much at OT and how will OC Arthur Smith respond if those struggles continue? Should we be surprised at the distribution of carries between Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And how could injuries to Joey Porter Jr. and DeShon Elliott impact the Week 2 game against Seattle? Our duo tackles those questions and more.
Post-Gazette high school sports insiders Mike White and Keith Barnes recap a busy week in football news around the WPIAL and City League. What do the guys make of Shady Side Academy's controversial forfeit to Clairton? Should there be repercussions? Why was the offensive battle between North Catholic and Blackhawk one of the highlights of the week? And how has the Cougars' Brayden McCarthy been able to lead the district in rushing despite his team frequently playing from behind? What have Southmoreland's Dawson Wolfe and Ringgold's Amoni Ward done to get the guys' attention? And who do they like in the highlight games of this week, including Penn-Trafford vs. Woodland Hills; Aliquippa vs. Mars; and Thomas Jefferson vs. Avonworth?
Post-Gazette insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable analyze the state of play with Pitt football as the Backyard Brawl rivalry game vs. the West Virginia Mountaineers looms this weekend. Are the QB Eli Holstein, OC Kade Bell and the Panthers meeting the grade offensively? Particularly in the running game with Desmond Reid? How did depth DBs Shawn Lee and Shadarian Harrison look in extended run against Central Michigan? And what does it mean for coach Pat Narduzzi's squad that WVU star Jaheim White is dealing with an injury following his team's loss to the Ohio Bobcats over the weekend? Our duo tackles those questions and more.
Post-Gazette sports writers Adam Bittner and Paul Zeise react live after the Steelers' NFL Week 1 matchup with the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. How did Aaron Rodgers look in his Steelers debut? How did he mesh with targets including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? Was the new-look defense solid with names like Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay Jr. in the lineup, joining established names like T.J. Watt, Joey Porter Jr. and Patrick Queen? And what should we make of GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin agreeing to a new contract with defensive captain Cam Heyward? The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes after the conclusion of the game on CBS . A replay will be available immediately after the live show.
Post-Gazette insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers' NFL Week 1 victory against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. How valuable has Chris Boswell become to coach Mike Tomlin after nailing field goals from 56 and 60 yards? The latter of which proving to be the game-winner. What should we make of Aaron Rodgers' prolific first outing within Arthur Smith's offense, throwing four touchdowns and proving chemistry with receivers including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III and Jonnu Smith? And why was Justin Fields able to have so much success against his former team? Moving the ball alongside running back Breece Hall against a Steelers defense that includes huge names like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. and Patrick Queen? Our duo tackles those questions and more.
Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to Pitt football's season-opening beating of Duquesne and look ahead to a Week 2 matchup with Central Michigan. Is Eli Holstein proving he belongs in the conversation with Miami's Carson Beck and Clemson's Cade Klubnik as the best QBs in the ACC? Should coach Pat Narduzzi and OC Kade Bell be concerned about the lack of rushing production beyond Desmond Reid? What does Duquesne receiver Joey Isabella's big day mean for the Pitt secondary? And why was Blue Hicks among the standouts at receiver for Jason? Our duo tackles those questions and more.
On the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder and Associates, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to take stock of DK Metcalf's role with the Steelers. Is he actually the most important player on the team? Despite the presence of Aaron Rodgers, Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and Jaylen Ramsey? Should his contract elevate the pressure for him to post bigger numbers than George Pickens did? Or is it the lack of depth behind him, with Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin still finding their way? And what difference will his attitude make in this Steelers locker room? Our duo tackles those questions; what success looks like for Rodgers within OC Arthur Smith's offense; and Cam Heyward's handling of his contract dispute with GM Omar Khan's front office.
Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to Penn State football's victory against Nevada and forward to a Week 2 matchup with Florida International. Are Dani Dennis-Sutton and DC Jim Knowles the pieces the Nittany Lions need to form a College Football Playoff national championship caliber defense? What did Drew Allar prove in distributing the ball to a bunch of receivers in the season opening win? Do Kyron Hudson, Devonte Ross and Trebor Pena give OC Andy Kotelnicki the depth necessary at receiver to challenge defenses? And is the running game's lack of explosiveness beyond Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton a concern for coach James Franklin? Our duo tackles those questions and more.