High School insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein are back to discuss the hottest topics in Western PA basketball. Which streaks are the greatest? Who are the shining stars? Plus, they share their predictions for the week.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the announcement of Vance McDonald’s retirement and how that impacts the Steelers’ tight end room. Plus, we discuss offensive coordinator candidates, the signing of Dwayne Haskins and preview the season’s remaining games.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss Tristan Jarry’s performance and how the Penguins can fill holes on an injury-ravaged defense. Plus, they share their early impressions of Kasperi Kapapen.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
College insiders Nubyjas Wilborn, Craig Meyer and John McGonigal break down Justin Champagnie’s insane return. How much has his performance shifted the conversation? Plus, Rivals’ Geoff Ketchum joins the show to discuss Penn State hiring Mike Yurcich as offensive coordinator.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak are back to break down everything the Pirates have done over this offseason — and yes, they’re calling it a rebuild. Plus, we’re joined by Baseball America’s Carlos Collazo to discuss the Pirates’ prospects and more.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo break down the latest team news and share their thoughts on all of the changes the Steelers could — and should — make. Who deserves a contract, and who shouldn't be back?
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Before the puck drops, Penguins insiders Mike DeFabo and Matt Vensel are sharing their final takeaways from training camp. Plus, they’re joined by a special guest: Penguins broadcaster Josh Getzoff, who discusses his role with the team and previews the season.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
College insiders John McGonigal, Nubyjas Wilborn and Craig Meyer review the College Football Playoff national championship, discuss Penn State's new offensive coordinator and address Justin Champagnie's health and where Pitt basketball stands.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo are back for an emergency podcast episode after a record-setting season for the Steelers ended with a record-setting playoff loss to the Browns. How did we get here, and who’s on the hot seat now?
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo share their biggest takeaways from the start of Penguins training camp. Will any of the new players complete the puzzle? Plus, we discuss the latest Kasperi Kapanen news, evaluate the power play and share stick taps.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
It’s playoff football time, and Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo are back to break down everything you need to know about Sunday’s Steelers-Browns matchup. The Steelers have home-field advantage and are getting their varsity players back. But with nothing to lose, will the Browns win this rematch? Plus, we break down the COVID-19 situation hanging over the upcoming game and discuss how each team is handling those challenges.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
College insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn are breaking down college basketball during a pandemic. How are teams like Pitt, Duquesne and Robert Morris adjusting to the changes? Will this wild season make it to the end?
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss how training camp will be different this year, which Penguins have the most to prove and what fans should look for. Plus, we share our stick taps.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo revisit the Steelers’ defeat of the Colts. They did what they had to do, but should we still be cautiously optimistic about the team? Plus, we discuss Mike Tomlin’s decision to rest Ben Roethlisberger, consider likely scenarios for the playoffs and make predictions for the Steelers’ regular season finale.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
College football insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn look back at how the Panthers and Nittany Lions fared during the 2020 season. Were expectations met? How do these teams move forward? Plus, we break down the latest Pitt basketball news.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo break down the Penguins’ new-look division. Which team looks like it could take it all? Plus, we analyze how playoffs will work and share stick taps.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the latest December collapse, punctuated by a loss to the lowly Bengals. Could we see some changes to the coaching staff soon? And is there any hope of a rebound from Ben Roethlisberger for the postseason, or are we witnessing the end of an era? Plus, we dive into the JuJu Smith-Schuster distracting social-media posts.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders Craig Meyer, John McGonigal and Nubyjas Wilborn discuss Penn State's 2020 season after it skipped a bowl, where Pitt stands after Kenny Pickett's decision to come back and what 2021 might look like for both teams.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo break down the Steelers’ performance against the Bills. Is Pittsburgh in trouble? Plus, we discuss JuJu’s latest antics and make predictions for Monday night’s game against the Bengals.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
College football insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn discuss Pitt's decision not to play in a bowl game. What exactly went wrong in the Panthers' disappointing 6-5 season? Plus, we look ahead to Penn State's game against Illinois.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Adam Bittner joins Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss the Steelers’ first loss of the season. Has Pittsburgh’s offense been exposed? Plus, we're joined by the Buffalo News' Jay Skurski to discuss how the Bills are viewing this massive matchup as a measuring-stick game and what Steelers fans need to know about the ascending opponent.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
College football insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn preview what’s next for Pitt and Penn State. How will these final regular season games play out? What are both teams’ postseason possibilities? Plus, they discuss Jeff Capel’s comments on amateurism and the pandemic.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
In an emergency episode, Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo break down everything that’s happened since the showdown with the Ravens first got postponed before Thanksgiving. Are the Steelers players right to complain about how the NFL is handling the outbreak in Baltimore? And what can we expect Tuesday night when this game is (maybe) finally played?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn break down Pitt's dominant win against Virginia Tech, predict the Panthers’ game at Clemson and discuss Penn State's historic 0-5 start. Plus, we look ahead to Jeff Capel's third season in charge of Pitt basketball.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko discuss the hot button issue for the undefeated Steelers: Will a struggling running game hold them back from a Super Bowl run? Plus we take a look at the upcoming game against the Jaguars and make our predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo draft two teams from Pittsburgh’s current roster. Plus, we update where things stand in the NHL's return-to-play plan and give out stick taps.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
High school football insiders Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein share their biggest takeaways from the WPIAL championship games, discuss the biggest performers and look ahead to the PIAA games coming up this weekend.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn break down Penn State's disastrous 0-4 start and the quarterback controversy that has risen as a result. Plus, Pitt felt the COVID-19 bite when it had a game postponed. Is it even possible that it will be the only schedule change?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss how the team is handling its first internal COVID situation and wonder if it would be best to rest Ben Roethlisberger regardless of how he tests to give the banged-up quarterback a breather before the stretch run. Then we dive into the Bengals matchup and offer our predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
High school insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein break down everything you need to know about the WPIAL football championships this weekend. Who are the names to watch, which teams will be crowned champions and what surprises might be in store? Finally, we share some memories of legendary coach Bob Amalia.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn break down Pitt's much-needed win at Florida State, discuss Penn State's shocking 0-3 start after an upset loss to Maryland and look ahead to what's next for the Panthers and Nittany Lions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko share their takeaways from everything that has happened since an emotional win over the Ravens and wonder if the team might be a bit overconfident as it’s racked up a 7-0 record. Plus, the Cowboys seem like a pushover in this matchup, but are there any lingering concerns about the run defense from the Baltimore game?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
High school football insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein dive into the WPIAL playoffs and share their biggest takeaways so far. We take a look at how the star players around the state are performing and predict every playoff matchup this weekend.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders Craig Meyer, John McGonigal and Nubyjas Wilborn dive into another whirlwind week, as Penn State falls to 0-2 while Pitt loses a significant player for its stretch run. What led to Paris Ford’s decision to opt out of the rest of the season? And how can the Nittany Lions salvage their year?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo analyze Sunday's game against the Ravens, as the Steelers have a chance to take an early lead in the race for the AFC's lone playoff spot. Can they play a complete game after lessons learned against the Titans?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
High school football insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein preview the WPIAL playoffs and cast their votes for who will win the championship in each class. We also dive into the shining stars to watch, sleepers to keep an eye on and pick six intriguing games.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pitt's blowout loss to Notre Dame was embarrassing. Penn State's defeat at Indiana was shocking. How can both programs pick up the pieces? Our college football insiders break it all down and look ahead at the steep climb the Panthers and Nittany Lions face the rest of the way.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo share their biggest takeaways from a statement win over the Browns, analyze how much the Devin Bush injury will hurt and give their predictions for a huge matchup with the Titans.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn discuss Pitt's problems as they enter Notre Dame week with a backup quarterback and a three-game losing streak. Are the Fighting Irish ripe for an upset? Plus we preview Big Ten season as Penn State prepares for Indiana.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo look ahead to a huge matchup with the Browns in an early fight for AFC North supremacy. Is there lingering concern after some questionable defense against the Eagles? And will there be any bad blood leftover from last year’s Myles Garrett fiasco? And finally, we offer our predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo break down all the moves made so far this offseason and ask the important question: Is the team actually better? And what holes still need to be addressed before the start of the new year?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
High school football insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein start this week's edition of High School Football Huddle by looking at the biggest recruiting questions, including where top prospect Derrick Davis will go. Then we discuss our game of the week, shining stars and bold predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders John McGonigal, Craig Meyer and Nubyjas Wilborn dive deep into Pitt's loss at Boston College, discuss where the Panthers go from here with back-to-back games against Miami and Notre Dame and talk about what constitutes success now for this Pitt team.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo dive into the matchup against the Eagles, a team entering Heinz Field banged up and struggling. The Steelers’ defense has a huge advantage on paper while the offense has a real chance to break out. Will the Steelers stay undefeated or can the Eagles shock the small crowd?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the Matt Murray trade to Ottawa and wonder if he's properly appreciated by fans for his contributions to two Stanley Cups. Plus we break down the Penguins' draft picks and look ahead to free agency.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Halfway through the 2020 season, high school football insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein give their picks for player and coach of the year so far. Plus, we predict our three-pack of games and offer the latest bold predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
High school football insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein break down what the WPIAL should do about COVID-19 postponements in the postseason, look at their shining stars and break down the game of the week. Plus we predict our three-pack of games and give our bold predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders Craig Meyer, John McGonigal and Nubyjas Wilborn share their takeaways from Pitt's win over Louisville, including an analysis of why the offense isn't quite clicking. Then we take a look at the newest AP poll with Penn State back in the mix and preview the Panthers' game against NC State.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo break down the trade of Patric Hornqvist for Mike Matheson and try to answer a popular question on fans' minds: What was GM Jim Rutherford thinking? Plus, with so many left-shot defensemen, another shoe has to drop. What will happen next?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo share their biggest takeaways from a win over the Broncos and analyze fans' concerns with the pass defense and running game. Can the secondary shape up in time for a stiffer test against Deshaun Watson and a Texans team in must-win mode? And how will the offensive line stand up against J.J. Watt and company? Plus we offer our Week 3 predictions.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein break down the biggest news surrounding high school football in Western Pennsylvania, looking at who shined the brightest last week and which teams have massive showdowns. Plus we offer our bold predictions for Week 3 and pick our three-pack of games.
Music from https://filmmusic.io and bensound.com
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss Steven Brault’s ascension as a starting pitcher and how he might fit into next season’s rotation. Plus, catcher Jacob Stallings has been the unsung hero and perhaps the team MVP this season, so will he stick around through the rebuild? And finally, what do we think is most important to address in the offseason?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
College insiders Craig Meyer, John McGonigal and Nubyjas Wilborn review the Pitt-Syracuse game and assess what the Panthers need to work on ahead of a crucial game against Louisville. Plus, we discuss the Big Ten's return to play this fall.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko break down the Week 1 win over the Giants and talk about why the team won't (and shouldn't) give up on James Conner at running back. Plus we look ahead to the Broncos in Week 2 and offer our predictions and discuss the Al Villanueva helmet controversy.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss the woeful offense of late and if any coaches are to blame for the struggles. Plus, we analyze why GM Ben Cherington's support of Gregory Polanco is the only option right now.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Insiders Mike White, Brad Everett and Steve Rotstein break down the first week of high school football in Western Pennsylvania, looking at who shined the brightest and which teams made the loudest statements. Plus we offer our bold predictions for Week 2 and pick our three-pack of games.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pitt insiders John McGonigal and Craig Meyer discuss the season-opening win over Austin Peay and share their biggest takeaways. Then we turn our attention to the ACC opener against Syracuse and analyze how the Panthers stack up.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Nubyjas Wilborn talks with Steelers legend Franco Harris to discuss Pittsburgh's heyday, his voting initiative and more
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo launch into the NFL's opening week with a preview of Monday night's matchup with the New York Giants. Is the Steelers pass rush destined for a big game? And will Pittsburgh's new-look offensive line hold up? Plus, we offer a revised edition of our season predictions.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss what they've learned in 2020 about what the immediate future holds at key positions. Has Erik Gonzalez earned a role at shortstop or become a valuable trade piece? And is Josh Bell's future at designated hitter?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates pitcher Chris Archer sat down with Nubyjas Wilborn to discuss an issue that has grown in importance to the injured star while he’s been sidelined: voting. The two also talk about:
- How discussing race in 2020 is both depressing and distracting.
- The possibility of losing friends with discussions of race.
- The importance of an informed and balanced vote.
- How Archer is recovering from his season-ending injury
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo report from another week of training camp and discuss how the Steelers plan to use All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in 2020. Will he continue his role from last season or be asked to carry a heavier load? Plus, Ben Roethlisberger has given rave reviews to both his throwing elbow and rookie wide receiver Chase Claypool. Are expectations rising for this offense?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss the Pirates’ new low after getting no-hit by the White Sox and move forward to the trade deadline. Which players make the most sense to deal, and which presumed trade targets should stick around?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Nubyjas Wilborn sits down with Fox Sports’ Joy Taylor to talk about life as a Pittsburgh native in national media, the college football landscape in 2020 and how she rose to prominence with the popular radio show “The Herd with Colin Cowherd.”
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo share what they learned during their first live look training camp, including rave reviews for Ben Roethlisberger and rookie wideout Chase Claypool. What are some names to watch during the team’s broadcasted practice Saturday night? Plus, is there any reason to worry about the lack of movement in contract talks with Cam Heyward?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss why the team needs to call up the top prospects and let the veterans sit in a season that's already sunk. Plus we take a look at the top names to watch over the stretch.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Colleges insider Nubyjas Wilborn sits down with Robert Morris athletic director Chris King to discuss life as a smaller school in the pandemic, looking at the financial difficulties associated with postponing the school's biggest sports and how to rebound.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss if the team is putting too much faith in Ben Roethlisberger being 100% healthy as they continue to run their offense through him. Plus we take a look at the crowded running backs room and what it means for James Conner's future in Pittsburgh.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss the return of Keone Kela and why the next few weeks are important to showcase their closer for potential trades. Plus, do they have any other pieces to sell by the deadline?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss why coach Mike Sullivan is officially on the hot seat following the overhaul to his coaching staff. Plus, GM Jim Rutherford indicated he wouldn't trade a member of the team's core, but where would significant changes come from otherwise?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Insiders Craig Meyer, John McGonigal and Nubyjas Wilborn discuss the crazy state of college football, with the Big Ten and Pac-12 pushing the season to the spring while other big conferences like the ACC seem determined to play in the fall. Is there a realistic chance Pitt will be playing this year? And if they do play in the spring, what will that look like?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the theme of training camp this year from coach Mike Tomlin: "One fail, all fail.' Can the team stay on the same page with social restrictions, and can the coaching staff properly evaluate their players? Plus, Ben Roethlisberger appears ready for camp and he has a surprising new weapon to work with.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak analyze what we've learned about the team through six games, from woeful hitting performances to surprising success stories. What can we take away from Derek Shelton's managerial approach so far, and where are the reasons for optimism?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo analyze what we learned during an exhibition loss to the Flyers before turning our focus to the Montreal Canadiens for the qualifying round. Are there lingering concerns with their sloppy turnovers and weak power play? Will Matt Murray hold on to the goalie job? And finally, who wins the series?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak give one final preview of the 2020 season before it kicks off Friday in St. Louis. Could Joe Musgrove be in line for a Cy Young season? Will Ke'Bryan Hayes take over at third base? And how many games can the Pirates realistically win in this 60-game season?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the battle between Tristan Jarry and Matt Murray for the goaltending job and wonder if it's really a competition or if it will be Murray in Game 1 no matter what. Plus, we break down the Penguins' biggest X-factor heading into the tournament and update the latest on Sidney Crosby.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pitt basketball insider Craig Meyer sits down with assistant coach Jason Capel to talk about coaching with his brother and building the Panthers back into title contenders. They also discuss:
- Capel's playing career, from his time as a McDonalds All-American to his run at North Carolina
- Becoming a coach at age 30
- The ongoing fight against racial injustice in the United States
- The excitement for this season after adding much-needed size
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss the elephant in the room at summer camp, as the absence of Gregory Polanco and Keone Kela raises concerns about possible coronavirus-related problems. Plus, there will be a live exhibition this weekend against the Indians, so what are we expecting?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo share their dispatches from training camp as the NHL gears up for a season restart. Plus, Mike Sullivan and John Marino seemingly got snubbed from their respective awards, so we make the case for them.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insider Brian Batko sits down with sack master T.J. Watt to discuss playing with his brother in Pittsburgh, life as an uncle and how he's kept in shape during the pandemic. Plus they talk about the challenges of the 2020 NFL season and the confidence level in the Steelers' defense.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penn State insider Nubyjas Wilborn chats with Alonzo Carter, who organized a massive Zoom chat with minority coaches, including James Franklin. They discuss:
- How Carter's time working as a backup dancer for MC Hammer helped him become a football coach.
- How the Zoom clinic started and how James Franklin got involved.
- The ultimate mission of the Zoom calls
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the team's franchise tag options next season. Assuming Bud Dupree does not get a long-term deal, could they tag the pass rusher again? Would that cause bad blood and risk losing other tag-eligible players like JuJu Smith-Schuster? Plus, Smith-Schuster and Ben Roethlisberger have been left out of recent top-10 rankings across sports media. Is that fair given what happened last season?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insider Brian Batko talks with former linebacker Arthur Moats about the transition to media, his historic run-in with Brett Favre and players standing up to protest.
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss why Pittsburgh wasn't chosen as a hub city for the NHL's restart plan and whether COVID-19 cases within the league are hurting enthusiasm. Plus, we take a look at the upcoming NHL draft lottery and throw out some names to know.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak break down MLB's 60-game season slated to start July 24. Did the league really cost itself fans during the long negotiations? And could the Pirates actually contend for a postseason berth under this new format? Plus, not all negotiations are over, so what more could MLB do to increase enthusiasm?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Insider Nubyjas Wilborn talks with Stadium's Michael Felder about life as a video analyst, why players need to speak up now and Penn State's 2020 chances.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo look into the future to determine if the Penguins can still rule their division in 3-plus years. Who will make up the team's next core? Is the organizational depth good enough to compete with their rivals? And how much more do Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin really have? Plus, we discuss the latest news surrounding Canadian hub cities and positive coronavirus tests.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pitt insiders Craig Meyer and John McGonigal join Penn State insider Nubyjas Wilborn to discuss how the Black Lives Matter protests around the country have ignited a new era of player empowerment, potentially changing the power dynamic in college sports forever. The controversy surrounding Pat Narduzzi's use of the word "thug" is just one example of many around the nation.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak analyze the 2020 MLB draft, looking at why top pick Nick Gonzales has a chance to be 'scary' good and why 31st overall pick Carmen Mlodzinski has the right mix of stuff and attitude. Plus, why did the team stock up on pitchers and ignore more immediate areas of need?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the decision to hold training camp at Heinz Field, looking at the pros (social distancing) and the cons (lack of facilities) for using the game-day stadium. Plus, with no minicamps and fewer preseason games, is the Steelers coaching staff better prepared than most?
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the return of Jake Guentzel to the practice ice, giving Pittsburgh a weapon no one expected to be available this season. Plus, we analyze what the Penguins' lines could look like when the real action finally starts.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penn State insider Nubyjas Wilborn catches up with former Nittany Lions star and social-media sensation Spice Adams. They discuss Adams' love for Penn State, the connection to current coach James Franklin, how he became such a viral star on social media and more.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko discuss what they've learned from virtual OTAs via discussions with Minkah Fitzpatrick and Diontae Johnson, outlining the challenges the team faces during the pandemic. Plus, they analyze the rejected 4th-and-15 rule change and the new status of Pittsburgh fans' favorite villain, Al Riveron.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak discuss the latest in negotiations between MLB and the MLBPA and try to find reasons for optimism. Can the league get out of its own way, especially as other sports form plans to restart? Plus, we discuss memories of the 1997 'Freak Show' Pirates and debut our Bat Flips segment.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo break down the NHL’s plan for a 24-team tournament now that it’s official, with Pittsburgh scheduled to take on Montreal in a play-in round. The Steel City is still being considered as one of the two hub cities, but how realistic is it? Plus, the NHL laid out its confusing plan for the draft lottery, and we try to explain why the Penguins could be in position to win.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko break down the Ben Roethlisberger video and why it should be an exciting thing for fans to see at this point. Plus, we discuss the potential rule change of having a 4th-and-15 play in place of an onside kick. Is it is fun innovation or just a gimmick? And JuJu Smith-Schuster is chasing a "revenge body." Will it translate on the field?
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak vent their frustrations with the latest reports surrounding MLB's efforts to begin this season and wonder if the league missed its chance to capture the hearts and minds of sports fans this summer. Plus, we look at the biggest things we learned during our Pirates on Pause series.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the 24-team tournament gaining steam in the NHL and analyze how a first-round matchup with the Canadiens would go and their chances to go all the way. Plus, we look at Dominik Simon's absence after surgery and how the lines should look when play resumes.
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Mike Persak break down the latest in the negotiations between MLB and the MLBPA as they try to start the season. Are the players hurting themselves with comments like Blake Snell’s, and are the owners really angling for a salary cap in the future? Plus, we discuss why an 82-game season would not only be more exciting, but would give the Pirates a legitimate shot at a postseason spot.