January 09, 2020Sidney Crosby nears return to Penguins; Evgeni Malkin snubbed again
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the impending return of Sidney Crosby and who his running mate will be without Jake Guentzel (hint: probably not Alex Galchenyuk). Plus, did Evgeni Malkin get snubbed for the All-Star game again, this time in favor of Kris Letang?
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
January 08, 2020Steelers offseason preview: Position-by-position breakdown
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo preview the 2020 offseason. Should Pittsburgh target a veteran backup QB over Mason Rudolph? Will they draft a RB high to replace James Conner? And what's the smart move with Bud Dupree? And finally, who won the year in 2019?
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
January 02, 2020Steelers 2019 season recap: Biggest surprises and disappointments
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap the 2019 season, looking at their biggest surprises and disappointments, best wins and worst losses, and project what the team could look like next year.
December 31, 2019Jake Guentzel suffers Penguins' latest - and biggest - injury
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss Jake Guentzel's devastating injury and what their options look like moving forward, including the possibility of a major trade. Plus, Sidney Crosby is getting closer to his return, so who will play with him now? We also recap a dominant December for the Penguins and look at who was the biggest All-Star snub.
December 26, 2019Steelers playoff scenarios: How will Sunday play out?
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the different scenarios that could play out on Sunday and how those outcomes will affect the Steelers. Plus, they take a look back at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's preseason predictions.
December 23, 2019The Penguins are back from Canada — and maybe they have some answers
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the Penguins trip to Canada, who the No. 1 goalie looks to be, and what GM Jim Rutherford had to say about the situation. Plus, they make bold second half predictions.
December 16, 2019Duck Hodges' honeymoon ends; Steelers' playoff path ahead
Our Steelers insiders discuss the rebirth of the quarterback controversy after Devlin Hodges' ugly night against the Bills, while also analyzing if the play-calling is hurting the offense just as much. Plus, the Steelers still control their own playoff destiny, but what do we realistically think of their postseason chances?
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
December 12, 2019Where did the season go wrong for Pitt football?
Our Pitt insiders look at the upcoming bowl game, revisit their preseason and midseason predictions and hand out their season superlatives. Plus, the basketball team is 10 games into its season and holds a 7-3 record. So what can we expect from them the rest of the way?
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
December 11, 2019Tristan Jarry's Penguins record run; Alex Galchenyuk experiment failing
Our Penguins insiders discuss Tristan Jarry's team record, how long he will keep the goaltending job away from Matt Murray, and how much credit the defense should be getting. Plus, we look at the disappointing season of Alex Galchenyuk and his murky future in Pittsburgh.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
December 10, 2019Studying Steelers' playoff scenarios
Our Steelers insiders look at the AFC playoff picture and project which path would be most favorable for Pittsburgh. We break down the report card from the Steelers' win over the Cardinals and raise a burning question: Is Devlin Hodges solidified as the No. 2 QB of the future? Plus, we break down the Bills matchup and offer predictions.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
December 05, 2019Penguins' goalie controversy heating up; Phil Kessel returns
Our Penguins insiders discuss the battle in net between Tristan Jarry and Matt Murray, the fascinating story behind newcomer Stefan Noesen and the return of Phil Kessel with the Coyotes. Plus, they hand out their Stick Taps to Brandon Tanev, Evgeni Malkin and others.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
December 03, 2019Duck Hodges buries Browns; Is Mike Tomlin Coach of the Year?
Our Steelers insiders discuss why the team and city rally behind Devlin "Duck" Hodges so much and whether we've seen the last of Mason Rudolph. Plus, they discuss Mike Tomlin's Coach of the Year prospects, Freddie Kitchens' antics and predictions for the Cardinals game.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
December 02, 2019Can the Pirates' new manager solve the team's old problems?
Our Pirates insiders analyze the hiring of new Pirates manager Derek Shelton and discuss whether the team is really looking for a full rebuild. Plus, how seriously should we take Starling Marte's remarks about wanting out of Pittsburgh?
November 27, 2019Steelers' game plan: Duck, defense and discipline
Our Steelers insiders analyze Devlin Hodges getting the start against the Browns and what it means for Mason Rudolph's future in Pittsburgh before they pick a winner in Sunday's matchup. Plus, did they find diamonds in the rough with WR Deon Cain and RB Kerrith Whyte?
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
November 26, 2019Penguins' goalie depth turning into valuable asset
Our Penguins insiders discuss goalie Tristan Jarry's impressive start and how the team's depth in the crease puts them in an enviable position. Plus, they give their observations of the new and impressive top line since Sidney Crosby has been out and award their Stick Taps of the week.
November 19, 2019Is Ben Cherington really 'Neal Huntington 2.0?'
Our Pirates insiders discuss the hiring of Ben Cherington as the new general manager, and what owner Bob Nutting meant by his comments on payroll allocation. Plus, they dissect what some interesting quotes from the front office really mean.
November 19, 2019The Mason Rudolph blame game; Should Steelers target Terrelle Pryor?
Our Steelers insiders discuss how much blame Mason Rudolph should get for his role in the brawl with Browns and give their perspective from the press box. Plus, with all the injuries piling up on offense, how can the Steelers score enough to win games? Should they take a look at local product Terrelle Pryor?
November 14, 2019How can Penguins survive Sidney Crosby's injury?
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo analyze how Sidney Crosby's extended absence will affect the team over the next six weeks and which players need to step up the most to fill the captain's void. Plus, they look at how the power play has been trending up and give out their Stick Taps of the week.
November 12, 2019Minkah Fitzpatrick leads Steelers' defensive resurgence
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the renaissance of the Steelers' defense and how much it can be credited to the trade for Minkah Fitzpatrick. Plus, they discuss what it means to be a franchise quarterback in 2019 and make a prediction for Thursday night's game against the Browns.
MUSIC CREDIT
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
November 06, 2019Penguins feeling good despite tight losses, injuries
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo analyze the goalies' cold snap, why they like how the team is playing despite some tough losses, and - surprise, surprise - key injuries. They also dive in to the surprising special teams and a gem on the fourth line before handing out their Stick Taps for the week.
MUSIC CREDIT
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
November 06, 2019Are the Steelers holding Mason Rudolph back?
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo evaluate the Steelers at the halfway point and question whether Mason Rudolph has been the quarterback they expected. They also hand out their midseason MVP award and analyze whether the Steelers should hand out a big contract to Bud Dupree after 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/)
November 01, 2019New offensive heroes emerge for Steelers
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the quiet trade deadline, their concerns for the running game and red flags raised from the scare against the Dolphins. Plus, they examine how Diontae Johnson could be following JuJu Smith-Schuster's career path and give their predictions for the Colts game.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 31, 2019Will Evgeni Malkin's return change how Penguins play?
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo break down the Erik Gudbranson trade and what it means for the team's solid defense, and they give stick taps to the AHL reinforcements who helped the team stay afloat. Plus, they dive deep into Evgeni Malkin's return and what it means for the Penguins' playing style moving forward.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 29, 2019Impressions from meeting with Pirates owner Bob Nutting
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Nubyjas Wilborn share thoughts from a sit-down interview with owner Bob Nutting and whether they feel the team is headed in the right direction under new leadership. Plus, they discuss the ongoing search for a new GM and manager.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 25, 2019Steelers-Dolphins a must-win game ... or is it a can't-lose?
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo break down Monday night's matchup with the Dolphins, discuss the realistic playoff chances and look into the future to see if this Pittsburgh defense is trending toward one of the league's best units.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 24, 2019Why was Frank Coonelly the Pirates' front-office scapegoat?
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Nubyjas Wilborn discuss their first impressions from the departure of president Frank Coonelly, why he took the fall for the team's struggles and what new executive Travis Williams can do any differently. They also discuss their top choices for manager as the candidates continue going elsewhere.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 22, 2019College Football updates: Have Pitt and Penn State performed as expected?
Penn State writer Mike Persak and Pitt writers John McGonigal and Craig Meyer discuss how the two teams have played up to this point and pick midway MVPs. They also talk about what the future could look like for the Nittany Lions and Panthers.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 16, 2019Steelers' off week comes at perfect time during 'fragile state'
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo break down Duck Hodges' surprising performance in a win over the Chargers, why this is still Mason Rudolph's team moving forward and the standout performance from the defense, highlighted by rookie Devin Bush.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 15, 2019Penguins' hot start: Small sample size or sustainable?
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo look at the depleted Penguins and discuss if their high-octane offense can keep up with the mounting injuries. They ponder if some of the young call-ups will stick long term and decide if some eye-popping stats are sustainable or a blip in the early season.
MUSIC CREDIT
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 10, 2019Penguins scramble to replace Malkin; Letang struggles to start
Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo take stock of the Penguins many injuries already, most notably the "longer term" absence of Evgeni Malkin. They look at four players who need to step up the most and give their impressions of the newcomers thus far.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 09, 2019Duck season in Pittsburgh: Can Devlin Hodges keep Steelers afloat?
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss the Steelers' chances of success against the Chargers with their third-string quarterback, whether Paxton Lynch could make an appearance soon, the tumultuous situation at wide receiver and the rumors linking Mike Tomlin with the Redskins.
MUSIC CREDIT
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 04, 2019Know your enemy: Ravens writer on rivalry with Steelers, game prediction
Which team is Baltimore more afraid of - the Steelers or the Browns? Baltimore Sun reporter Jonas Shaffer joins us to talk about Week 5's matchup and the implications moving forward.
MUSIC CREDIT
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
October 01, 2019Steelers have a win, but is the performance sustainable?
Steelers insiders Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss if the Week 4 win changes how they think about the team's future, if the performance can be sustained going forward and if Pittsburgh has a legitimate shot at beating the Ravens.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 30, 2019Clint Hurdle fired: Who could be next as Pirates manager?
Pirates insiders Jason Mackey and Nubyjas Wilborn take you behind the scenes of Clint Hurdle's firing, discuss whether Neal Huntington should have followed him out the door and look what who might be next in line for Pittsburgh's dugout.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 26, 201913 things we've learned as Penguins season opener approaches
Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo discuss the closing window for the Penguins' Big 3, if Evgeni Malkin is truly motivated to return to glory and why Brandon Tanev is the perfect fit for the top two lines.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 24, 2019Steelers remain winless, James Conner disappears, and bold predictions
Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo look at the anemic Steelers offense and a defense that can't seem to make a big stop and discuss which side of the ball is more at fault for the team's 0-3 start.
And should the Steelers be playing Jaylen Samuels more now that James Conner is stuck in the mud?
Plus, some bold predictions for the rest of the season.
MUSIC CREDIT
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 19, 2019Pirates postmortem: Trying to make sense of chaotic season
Jason Mackey and Nubyjas Wilborn dig through the rubble of the Pirates' '2019 season to find some positives, discuss the multiple off-field incidents that plagued the team and look ahead at who will be (or should be) fired.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 18, 2019Big Ben out, Minkah Fitzpatrick in: What does future hold for Steelers?
Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss Ben Reothlisberger's uncertain future, how Mason Rudolph projects for the rest of this season, Minkah Fitzpatrick's immediate impact and Devin Bush's early struggles. Then they look ahead to the 49ers in Week 3 and predict if the Steelers can capture their first win.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 16, 2019Steelers legend Dermontti Dawson on the loss of Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers' chances moving forward
Hall of Fame center Dermontti Dawson joins Adam Bittner to talk about how the Steelers move forward without Ben Roethlisberger, the star-in-the-making that is Devin Bush, and the team's chances of staying competitive with Mason Rudolph under center.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 13, 2019Pitt-Penn State: The 100th (final?) matchup in storied rivalry
John McGonigal and Mike Persak break down the 100th meeting between Pitt and Penn State, and former Pitt star Mike Caprara joins Adam Bittner to remember the Panthers' 2016 win and look ahead. Then, Former Penn State linebacker Nyeem Wartman talks about his new role as an assistant coach at Mississippi State, memories of the classic matchup between the Nittany Lions and Pitt in 2016 and his thoughts on whether the series is a rivalry.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 10, 2019Steelers crumble in New England, AB signs with Patriots and Seahawks loom
Steelers writers Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap a disastrous night in New England (1:55), discuss how Pittsburgh can pick up the pieces (7:15), debunk some Antonio Brown conspiracy theories (18:30) and preview the Week 2 game against the Seahawks (26:36).
September 05, 2019Steelers-Patriots preview: Can Pittsburgh spoil a banner party in New England?
Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo recap the Steelers' final moves ahead of the season opener (4:21), analyze the matchup with the Patriots in New England (15:00) and give their fearless predictions (36:36).
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
September 05, 2019Steelers-Patriots rivalry: Best and worst memories
Adam Bittner and Josh Axelrod look back at the times when they were just Steelers fans and recount their favorite and worst memories from the Patriots rivalry, their most hated players and the outcome they would most like to change.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
August 29, 2019College football preview: Pitt, Penn State and national picture
College football season is here, so Pitt writer John McGonigal and Penn State writer Mike Persak join Adam Bittner to discuss the things they'll be watching in Week 1 (3:46), their team MVPs and breakout stars (17:27) and pick their favorites for the College Football Playoff (53:25).
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
August 21, 2019State of the Steelers: WRs emerging, James Conner's value and versatile defense
With Steelers training camp over, Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo discuss what they learned at Saint Vincent (1:27), break down preseason Weeks 2 and 3 (9:27), look at the versatile defense (16:21), view the Antonio Brown drama from afar (23:57) and pick a No. 2 QB between Mason Rudolph and Josh Dobbs (29:16).
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
August 16, 2019Pitt football expectations with new-look offense and defense missing its star
Craig Meyer and John McGonigal discuss Kenny Pickett's ceiling under new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple (4:05), how the defense can possibly replace star defensive lineman Rashad Weaver (22:03) and Pitt's tough schedule to open the year (39:21).
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
August 09, 2019Which Steelers have stood out in camp, and who to watch in preseason
Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo highlight the three players that have stood out to them in camp so far (3:01), hold a Steelers preseason fantasy draft (22:15) and remind us all why preseason results don't really matter (36:09).
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
August 02, 2019Future of the Pirates after quiet trade deadline
Jason Mackey, Bill Brink and Nubyjas Wilborn discuss the Pirates trading Corey Dickerson (2:23) and try to figure out why Felipe Vazquez is still in Pittsburgh (11:33). They take a big-picture look at GM Neal Huntington's approach to team-building (23:26) and share their favorite brawl moments (36:24).
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
July 26, 2019Steelers open training camp; Penguins offseason review
In the first-ever episode of The North Shore Drive, we dive into Steelers training camp talk with Brian Batko and Ray Fittipaldo. They discuss camp memories (5:25) and off-the-radar guys to keep an eye on (10:00).
Then, Matt Vensel and Mike DeFabo join us to recap the Penguins' summer so far (33:10), predict who could get traded next (44:20), and guess what the lines will look like in the fall (50:30).
Coming this week: The North Shore Drive, a weekly sports podcast from the sports staff of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Music from https://filmmusic.io "RetroFuture Clean" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)