Podcast appearances and mentions of ray fittipaldo

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap the Steelers' NFL Week 7 loss against the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. Why were the Bengals' Joe Flacco, Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase able to have so much success against Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr., Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and the Steelers' vaunted secondary? How did Bengals RB Chase Brown pile up over 100 yards against a Steelers defensive front that includes Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton, Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson? And where does coach Mike Tomlin's defense stand moving forward? Our duo tackles those questions plus and up-and-down night for Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Jaylen Warren, Roman Wilson and the Steelers offense that piled up points but also committed some costly errors. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray wouldn't be surprised if Jalen Ramsey has a limitation in his snap count due to the short week. Ray noted the 17 sacks in the last 3 games and how important the pass rush will be against Joe Flacco. Ray said the Steelers corners provide some matchups with Bengals WRs that are ‘good for football.' Ray likes the defensive wrinkles the Steelers have thrown in the last few weeks and explained why it brings him back to the Blitzburgh days. Ray doesn't see any reason why the Steelers should go away from the jumbo package with Darnell Washington and Spencer Anderson. He wondered if we will see any more creativity from that set. Is there any chance this game ends up in a shootout? Ray feels like the division is not lost tonight if the Steelers don't win the game.

About 3 hours until Steelers-Bengals in Cincy. Poni said he is breaking one of his biggest rules as he makes note that every single person on NFL Live picked the Steelers. What are the Bengals good at? Not much – and their best defensive player is now out as Trey Hendrickson will miss the game. Even with everyone picking the Steelers, Poni can't bring himself to pick against them in this game. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray wouldn't be surprised if Jalen Ramsey has a limitation in his snap count due to the short week. Ray noted the 17 sacks in the last 3 games and how important the pass rush will be against Joe Flacco. Ray said the Steelers corners provide some matchups with Bengals WRs that are ‘good for football.' Ray likes the defensive wrinkles the Steelers have thrown in the last few weeks and explained why it brings him back to the Blitzburgh days. Ray doesn't see any reason why the Steelers should go away from the jumbo package with Darnell Washington and Spencer Anderson. He wondered if we will see any more creativity from that set. Is there any chance this game ends up in a shootout? Ray feels like the division is not lost tonight if the Steelers don't win the game Total Request Thursday.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the Steelers practice facility after Tuesday's practice leading up to the team's "Thursday Night Football" matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. What can we expect from the Steelers defense, which went out and got defensive backs like Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay Jr. to pair with Joey Porter Jr. and take on guys like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins? What does it say about that unit's depth that they may be able to move guys around and use in different matchups and coverages? What can we expect from Joe Flacco, a player who's very familiar with the Steelers and actually beat Pittsburgh last season as a member of the Indianapolis Colts? Will pass rushers like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig be able to get after him because of his lack of mobility? Or will his still elite arm strength pose a problem? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac & Ray Fittipaldo recap an NFL Week 6 victory against the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns at Acirusre Stadium. They explain how Nick Herbig, Jalen Ramsey, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon and others were able to generate so much pressure on Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel; why Patrick Queen and the run defense were able to shut down dangerous rookie RB Quinshon Judkins; and a productive day from Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and the offense, which was able to move the ball both through the air and on the ground for coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray thinks it's impossible to know if Jaxson Dart would have similar success here. Ray thinks the Steelers will win a close game. The Steelers are going to help Broderick Jones out as much as possible in pass protection against Myles Garrett.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: The Steelers are going to help Broderick Jones out as much as possible in pass protection against Myles Garrett. Ray expects Jaylen Warren to return to the backfield and take a large majority of the snaps. The Numbers Game. The 2025 Ravens have already allowed more points than the 200 Ravens. 8 - The Steelers lead the all-time series 82-64-1 and the Browns won the first eight.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo report from the team's Thursday practice ahead of an NFL Week 6 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. They give their thoughts on comments by DC Teryl Austin and OC Arthur Smith. Specifically, the ponder whether Austin has unlocked T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon after they tallied six sacks in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings. Can those results continue? Or was the big day a one-off? How involved can Austin get inside linebackers like Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson within the rush? And when will we get to see a complete secondary that includes a healthy Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr.? Our duo tackles those questions and ways Smith is working with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Darnell Washington. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. What is the latest with the Steelers injuries? Ray doesn't think Roman Wilson is set for a big bump in snaps. Ray didn't say Pat Freiermuth has fallen out of favor with the offense, but it is bizarre how little we have seen of him through 4 games. Ray said there is still a belief in Pat, but it's hard to pay him $11M and barely use him.

Austin's Answers – What did Teryl Austin say to the Steelers media earlier today? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. What is the latest with the Steelers injuries? Ray doesn't think Roman Wilson is set for a big bump in snaps. Ray didn't say Pat Freiermuth has fallen out of favor with the offense, but it is bizarre how little we have seen of him through 4 games. Ray said there is still a belief in Pat, but it's hard to pay him $11M and barely use him. Total Request Thursday.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to preview the upcoming Steelers' game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap coach Mike Tomlin's news conference at the team's UPMC Rooney Sports Complex ahead of their NFL Week 6 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. What do the expected returns of Joey Porter Jr., Alex Highsmith and Jaylen Warren mean for the Steelers heading into two division contests in five days? Will Jalen Ramsey (hamstring) and Calvin Austin III (shoulder) suit up? Will names like Chuck Clark, Juan Thornhill and Jabrill Peppers play more at safety if Ramsey is limited? And how will the tight ends be used against the stout Browns defense? Could Pat Freiermuth break out in the passing game? Or will it be more run packages with Darnell Washington? 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 Tuesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, host Jason Mackey and Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo look ahead to the Browns game and the impending return of starters Joey Porter Jr. and Alex Highsmith. Will the Steelers need to change anything schematically with the reinforcements? Plus, a look at the crazy week in the NFL and where the Steelers stack up in the AFC North and the conference overall. 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 Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo open Browns week with a look at the surprising role of the tight ends. Did Darnell Washington prove he is more valuable then Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith with his run blocking in the Steelers' latest win over the Vikings? And after watching the AFC North disasters this past weekend, is the road clear for the Steelers to win the division? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hour 2 with Donny Football: Ray doesn't expect the Steelers to add a wide receiver at this point. "They like Calvin Austin as a No. 2 receiver." Jakobi Meyers for a mid-round pick would make some sense, but Ray thinks adding another big mouth to feed is difficult for Arthur Smith. This is a must win game for Pitt against a down Boston College team. Eli Holstein earns a C+ or C- from Stephen's report.

Ray thinks Roman Wilson is eventually going to get an opportunity, but Aaron Rodgers trusts Scotty Miller and Ben Skowronek. Ray doesn't expect the Steelers to add a wide receiver at this point. "They like Calvin Austin as a No. 2 receiver."

-Donny brings up a Steelers trade rumor. For Jaguars WR Tim Patrick. Most everyone has no idea who that is. Which you would think would make the guys think it would be a big waste of time. However Mullsy LIKES Patrick. Because he put up WR2 stats in Denver. The two agree having this discussion is really just a bad sign for Roman Wilson. -Ray Fittipaldo joins the show. The Steelers insider explains why Roman Wilson cant get out of the doghouse. And gets into why Pat Friermuth is having such a bad season. -TRT: Total Request Thursday. The listeners wanted the guys to talk about the ex-Pirates having success in the playoffs.

Ray Fittipaldo joins the show. The Steelers insider explains why Roman Wilson cant get out of the doghouse. And gets into why Pat Friermuth is having such a bad season.

On the Wednesday episode of The North Shore Drive podcast presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the team at the bye week. Will Calvin Austin III's injury lead to more playing time for the likes of Roman Wilson? And have injuries to the Bengals and Ravens opened the door for an AFC North title? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to react to the Steelers' win on Sunday with Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson.

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.

Scott Petrak, Richard Skinner and Ray Fittipaldo joined the show to provide insight on the rest of the AFC North after week 4

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.

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.

Ray said Art Rooney addressed the team on Monday regarding how much this Ireland game means to the Steelers. They want to win the game very badly, but injuries are still a concern on defense. Ray thinks there is a better chance that DeShon Elliott plays than Joey Porter Jr. Ray thinks the Steelers are probably going to hold Porter Jr. back with his soft-tissue injury.

Hour 2 with Donny Football: Ray said Art Rooney addressed the team on Monday regarding how much this Ireland game means to the Steelers. They want to win the game very badly, but injuries are still a concern on defense. Former Penn State offensive lineman and current analyst Landon Tengwall joined the show. The key to the 2025 White Out is how Drew Allar will play. Landon called it absolutely a must-win game for James Franklin and Allar.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray's guess is that Joey Porter Jr. will not play in Dublin, but DeShon Elliott has a ‘pretty good' chance to. The guys asked Ray about TJ Watt moving around and if it's more about the playing not wanting to do it. Is Keeanu Benton battling for roster relevancy? Ray believes we could see more Daniel Ekuale as the season moves on. The guys asked Ray about the scheme on both sides and if it's all working. Ray doesn't think the Steelers have everything figured out this weekend – he picked Minnesota to win the game 27-16 on Sunday.

Austin's Answers – What did Teryl Austin say to the media earlier today? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. Ray's guess is that Joey Porter Jr. will not play in Dublin, but DeShon Elliott has a ‘pretty good' chance to. The guys asked Ray about TJ Watt moving around and if it's more about the playing not wanting to do it. Is Keeanu Benton battling for roster relevancy? Ray believes we could see more Daniel Ekuale as the season moves on. The guys asked Ray about the scheme on both sides and if it's all working. Ray doesn't think the Steelers have everything figured out this weekend – he picked Minnesota to win the game 27-16 on Sunday. Bucco Minute – We just got done watching the best season a Pirates pitcher has ever had. The Reds beat the Pirates in the finale to avoid the sweep. What was their record this year with Paul Skenes on the mound?

Mark starts the second hour talking to Penguins goalie legend Marc-André Fleury, before bringing Ray Fittipaldo onto the show to discuss the Steelers' upcoming game against the Vikings in Ireland. Ask Mark Anything!

Mark starts the second hour talking to Penguins goalie legend Marc-André Fleury, before bringing Ray Fittipaldo onto the show to discuss the Steelers' upcoming game against the Vikings in Ireland. Ask Mark Anything!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to react to the Steelers' 21-14 win over the New England Patriots from Sunday.

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson focus on concerns about the Steelers' defense. Also, Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline. And a look around the NFL! September 24, 2025, 8:00 Hour

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.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter & Ray Fittipaldo react to the NFL Week 3 victory against the New England Patriots. Should coach Mike Tomlin be encouraged that Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Jabrill Peppers, Cole Holcomb and Brandin Echols were able to generate five turnovers on defense? Or is it a concern that Patriots QB Drake Maye was still able to move the ball in between those big plays? Can this unit really rely on that amount of ball luck in subsequent weeks? Or does DC Teryl Austin still need to figure out how to limit opposing offenses better? Our duo tackles those questions, then gives thoughts on the offense as well. Does OC Arthur Smith need to consider passing more with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith to open up running lanes for Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Or was the first drive evidence that this unit can run the ball if Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and the offensive line are performing? 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.

Grading the Steelers performance against the Patriots. Ray Fittipaldo's report card. How do the offense, defense, special teams, and the coaching grade in the game??

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to an NFL Week 3 victory against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. They offer thoughts on Aaron Rodgers' inconsistent effort at QB that included touchdowns to Calvin Austin III and DK Metcalf but frustration in between. And a up-and-down day for Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell behind the offensive line led by Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu. Our duo also weighs in on coach Mike Tomlin's defense, which generated five turnovers thanks to names like Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, Cole Holcomb and Jabrill Peppers. But also yielded significant yardage to Patriots QB Drake Maye, signaling that some of the unit's recent woes may be persisting. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DeShon Elliott and Joey Porter Jr. have not practiced this week and Ray doesn't think either will play. The Steelers are concerned about defensive lineman Derrick Harmon's conditioning coming off his knee injury. Harmon would be on a snap count if he plays. Ray picks New England.

Hour 2 with Joe Starkey and Donny Football: DeShon Elliott and Joey Porter Jr. have not practiced this week and Ray doesn't think either will play. The Steelers are concerned about defensive lineman Derrick Harmon's conditioning coming off his knee injury. Harmon would be on a snap count if he plays. Nick Herbig will likely start for Alex Highsmith, but Jack Sawyer will play! The top numbers in the Steelers-Patriots game.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac & Ray Fittipaldo recap news conferences by OC Arthur Smith and DC Teryl Austin at the team's UPMC Rooney Sports Complex ahead of their NFL Week 3 matchup with the New England Patriots. Will Derrick Harmon be able to make his NFL debut? Or will an injury continue to hold the rookie defensive lineman back? Could injuries to players including DeShon Elliott and Isaiahh Loudermilk mean more playing time for names like Logan Lee, Jabrill Peppers and Daniel Ekuale? How can Austin and coach Mike Tomlin get Keeanu Benton back on track? And on the offensive side, how can Smith get RBs Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson to generate explosive runs? Even as offensive linemen including Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu struggle? 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.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. How many issues do the Steelers have with their defense? Ray thinks Daniel Ekuale could see more snaps on Sunday in substitution for Keeanu Benton. Will the Steelers try to work Yahya Black in the mix at nose? Ray explained why the Steelers need to get TJ Watt on the move. Will Derrick Harmon make his debut on Sunday? The guys asked Ray about the readiness of a few guys, especially Kaleb Johnson, who made the big gaffe last week. Ray said people eventually have to point the finger at Mike Tomlin when they watch the Steelers defense disappoint. Ray picked against the Steelers on Sunday.

It has been 17 years since the Steelers won a game in New England. Who are the 5 franchises that have spited the Steelers for longer in their venue? Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo from the PG joined the show. How many issues do the Steelers have with their defense? Ray thinks Daniel Ekuale could see more snaps on Sunday in substitution for Keeanu Benton. Will the Steelers try to work Yahya Black in the mix at nose? Ray explained why the Steelers need to get TJ Watt on the move. Will Derrick Harmon make his debut on Sunday? The guys asked Ray about the readiness of a few guys, especially Kaleb Johnson, who made the big gaffe last week. Ray said people eventually have to point the finger at Mike Tomlin when they watch the Steelers defense disappoint. Ray picked against the Steelers on Sunday. Total Request Thursday.

Ray Fittipaldo from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline to react to the Steelers' loss to the Seattle Seahawks from Sunday and also to address some comments made by head coach Mike Tomlin at his weekly press conference on Tuesday.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo react to coach Mike Tomlin's weekly news conference at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex ahead of an NFL Week 3 matchup with the New England Patriots. They give their thoughts on Kaleb Johnson losing his role as a kickoff returner after his major gaffe against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2; Johnson's future in a backfield that Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell have dominated so far; Tomlin's belief that the run defense improved in Week 2 despite the Seahawks' Kenneth Walker III having a huge day; the offensive line struggles of tackles Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu; and Tomlin's late-game fourth-down decision that proved costly. 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.

Editor's note: We apologize for audio syncing issues with this episode. On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Christopher Carter sort through the NFL Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. What's behind the inconsistency coach Mike Tomlin's defense has shown through two games? Particularly against Sam Darnold, Kenneth Walker III and Jaxson Smith-Njigba on Sunday? Why are key players like Jalen Ramsey, Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson and others simply losing one-on-one matchups? And will the woes require a change in scheme from DC Teryl Austin if they continue? Our duo tackles those questions, plus a frustrating day for the offense. How much is QB Aaron Rodgers to blame of the lack and scoring? And how much criticism do Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and the offensive line deserve for failing to give Rodgers the time to distribute the ball to targets including DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith and Roman Wilson? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kaleb Johnson admitted he messed up and has a chip on his shoulder. Johnson hasn't been able to provide any production to the running back room during the first two games. Our report card for the Steelers! Ray Fittipaldo gave Aaron Rodgers a C. Joe gives Rodgers a C- and Bob goes with a C.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac and Ray Fittipaldo recap an NFL Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the home opener at Acrisure Stadium. They sort through the defense's many issues in slowing down QB Sam Darnold, RB Kenneth Walker III and receiver Jaxson Smith-Njigba. Is it time to worry about coach Mike Tomlin's high-priced unit that includes names like Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt and Jalen Ramsey? Are injuries to names like Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott and Alex Highsmith the bigger issues? And can DC Teryl Austin find solutions sooner than later? Our guys tackle those questions; a tepid performance, at best, from QB Aaron Rodgers, WR DK Metcalf and RB Jaylen Warren; and a costly gaffe by rookie RB Kaleb Johnson on a kickoff that contributed mightily to the defeat. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Teryl Austin said he thought his defense was physically dominated against Baltimore, but didn't think that against the Jets. The Steelers have given up 100 or more yards rushing in 10 of their last 20 games. Keeanu Benton hasn't shown what it takes to play nose tackle. Yahya Black is going to play more snaps against Seattle.

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.