The Pittsburgh Football Podcast by Chris Gates

Chris Gates

Pitt. Steelers. Football. A lifelong fan talking the game and building a community for people who love it.

  1. 10h ago

    36. Steelers vs. Saints: Breakout Opportunity for Pittsburgh's Offense?

    The Pittsburgh Steelers are headed to Paris to take on the New Orleans Saints, and this could be the perfect opportunity for Pittsburgh's offense to finally put together a complete performance. Coming off a wild overtime win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Steelers have shown flashes of what their offense can become. But can Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren, DK Metcalf, and Germie Bernard put it all together for four quarters against one of the NFL's worst defenses? In Episode 36 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris previews Steelers vs. Saints, breaking down the matchups on both sides of the ball. We discuss Pittsburgh's offensive inconsistencies, the signing of Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and whether the Steelers' improving defense can take advantage of Saints quarterback Tyler Shough playing through an injury to his non-throwing hand. Plus, we examine Pittsburgh's ongoing special teams problems, the potential return of DeShon Elliott, and the unusual circumstances surrounding Sunday's game in Paris, where the NFL is moving forward despite significant civil unrest. Can the Steelers keep building momentum and deliver their most complete performance of the season? -- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro04:46 - The Situation in Paris10:24 - Steelers Injury Update14:51 - Marquez Valdez-Scantling to Boost Wide Receiver Position17:32 - Steelers Are Making Trade Calls22:30 - Previewing the Game When Pittsburgh Has the Ball27:06 - Previewing the Game When New Orleans Has the Ball32:11 - When Will the Steelers Fix Their Special Teams Issues36:26 - Predictions for the Game

    36. Steelers vs. Saints: Breakout Opportunity for Pittsburgh's Offense?
  2. 1d ago

    35. Is A 24-Team Playoff Good for Pitt? Plus, Previewing Miami

    Is expanding the College Football Playoff to 24 teams actually good for college football? On Episode 35 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris Gates breaks down the proposed 24-team College Football Playoff and what it could mean for Pitt, the ACC, and the future of the sport. For programs like Pitt, expansion could create a much more realistic path to the playoff and open new opportunities for recruiting, fundraising, and national relevance. But at what cost? College football is becoming more and more like the NFL, and a larger playoff could further diminish the importance of the regular season, eliminate conference championship games, widen the divide between the Power Four and Group of Six, and continue to erode the traditions and rivalries that have made college football special for generations. Is the sport sacrificing its identity in pursuit of more money? Plus, Pitt heads to Miami this weekend to take on the No. 1 Hurricanes as a massive underdog. Coming off two straight losses, with major questions at quarterback and a struggling defense, do the Panthers have any realistic chance of competing? Chris examines Miami's potential weaknesses, what Florida State exposed in its recent matchup with the Hurricanes, and what Pitt needs to do to avoid another disappointing performance. Topics include: Why a 24-team playoff could benefit PittWhether playoff expansion is hurting college football's regular seasonThe future of conference championships and traditional rivalriesThe growing financial divide in college footballIs college football becoming too much like the NFL?Pitt vs. No. 1 Miami: Matchup breakdown, keys to the game, and predictions-- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro03:31 - How a 24-Team Playoff Benefits Pitt16:06 - How a 24-Team Playoff is Bad for College Football20:45 - Conferences Won't Mean Anything Anymore24:15 - How This Impacts G6 Conferences and Teams28:37 - The Business Side of A 24-Team Playoff35:36 - Pitt-Miami: A Letdown Spot for the Canes?42:51 - Does Miami Have Any Weaknesses?

    35. Is A 24-Team Playoff Good for Pitt? Plus, Previewing Miami
  3. 3d ago

    34. A Wild Comeback, Baffling Decisions & Overtime Drama | Steelers-Bucs Recap

    The Pittsburgh Steelers found a way to beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in overtime, but HOW they managed to win might be the biggest story of the game. In Episode 34 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris breaks down a wild Steelers-Bucs matchup that featured another frustrating offensive performance through three quarters, an explosive fourth-quarter comeback, questionable late-game decisions, and special teams mistakes that nearly cost Pittsburgh the game. With the Steelers holding the ball at the three-yard line and an opportunity to put the game away, why did they throw the football on two of three downs instead of leaning on Jaylen Warren? And what happened with the clock management and special teams execution that allowed Tampa Bay to force overtime? We break down those critical sequences, plus: Aaron Rodgers, Jaylen Warren, and DK Metcalf stepping up when the Steelers needed them most.Germie Bernard's impressive rookie season and why he was one of the few consistent offensive bright spots throughout the game.Pittsburgh's offensive inconsistency and why the Steelers keep struggling to score until the fourth quarter.The Steelers' bend-but-don't-break defense, which generated more pressure as the game progressed and forced critical mistakes.Continued special teams concerns, including penalties, missed field goals, and coverage breakdowns.The bigger picture: Can the Steelers keep winning games this way, or will these mistakes eventually catch up with them?A win is a win, and the Steelers deserve credit for finding a way to get it done. But this game left us with plenty of questions about the offense, coaching decisions, and special teams. -- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro04:10 - How the Steelers Made it Way Harder Than it Needed to Be13:54 - Confusing Clock Management At the End of the Game21:39 - Special Teams Gaffes that Continue to Hurt This Team'28:13 - Positives on the Offensive Side of the Ball for Pittsburgh34:14 - The Steelers Continue to Play Bend But Don't Break Defense42:17 - Where the Steelers Go From Here

    34. A Wild Comeback, Baffling Decisions & Overtime Drama | Steelers-Bucs Recap
  4. 4d ago

    33. Pitt Football Is in Trouble. Can This Season Be Saved? | Boston College Recap

    Another ugly loss has Pitt football facing some serious questions about the direction of its season. After falling to Boston College, where do the Panthers go from here? In Episode 33 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris breaks down Pitt's disappointing performance against Boston College and, more importantly, what comes next for Pat Narduzzi and the Panthers. The quarterback situation remains a major concern after Corey Dailey struggled to generate consistent offense. Should Pitt stick with Dailey, turn back to Holden Geriner, or rethink its offensive approach entirely heading into the matchup with Miami? Defensively, Pitt struggled to stop Boston College's passing attack, while injuries and costly penalties made matters worse. The Panthers surrendered 133 penalty yards, and with a difficult schedule ahead, it's becoming increasingly difficult to identify where the remaining wins will come from. Chris also discusses the growing frustration surrounding Pat Narduzzi, why firing him now isn't the answer, and how the remainder of this season could impact his future at Pitt. Plus, listener reactions and questions about the quarterback position, defensive struggles, coaching decisions, and what Pitt needs to do to turn things around. Topics include: Pitt vs. Boston College recap and biggest takeawaysCorey Dailey vs. Holden Geriner: Who should start against Miami?Why Pitt's offense continues to struggleDefensive breakdowns, injuries, and costly penaltiesIs Pat Narduzzi approaching the hot seat?Can Pitt salvage its season with the remaining schedule?Listener reactions to another frustrating loss-- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro04:17 - Can Pitt's Season Be Saved?27:02 - Breaking Down Corey Dailey's QB Performance33:07 - Pitt's Defensive Implosion41:54 - A Few Random Thoughts45:03 - Listener Reaction After the Game

    33. Pitt Football Is in Trouble. Can This Season Be Saved? | Boston College Recap
  5. Oct 16

    32. Steelers-Buccaneers Preview: Can Pittsburgh Start Stacking Wins?

    The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to keep their momentum rolling against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but can they build on their recent offensive success with a depleted receiving corps? In Episode 32 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris previews the Steelers' matchup with Tampa Bay and explains why Jaylen Warren needs to remain the focal point of Pittsburgh's offense after his explosive performance against the Indianapolis Colts. With Michael Pittman Jr., Roman Wilson, and Ben Skowronek sidelined, can Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers find ways to keep moving the football? And what roles will DK Metcalf, Germie Bernard, Pat Freiermuth, and Darnell Washington play? On the defensive side, the Steelers could face rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels with Baker Mayfield dealing with an injury. Chris breaks down the challenge Daniels presents, the importance of containing running back Bucky Irving, and how Pittsburgh's defense can build on its performance against Indianapolis. Plus, a look at the biggest injury updates, key matchups, and what the Steelers must do to come away with another win. Topics include: Why Jaylen Warren should be the centerpiece of Pittsburgh's offenseHow the Steelers can overcome injuries at wide receiverAaron Rodgers and the importance of the tight endsJalon Daniels, Bucky Irving, and Tampa Bay's offensive threatsSteelers defensive injuries and key matchupsKeys to victory and a game prediction-- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro05:03 - What’s In the News? Steelers Injury Updates13:35 - Jalon Daniels Expected to Start for Tampa Bay14:38 - Previewing the Game: When the Bucs Have the Ball23:44 - Previewing the Game: When the Steelers Have the Ball30:10 - Game Plan and Predictions

    32. Steelers-Buccaneers Preview: Can Pittsburgh Start Stacking Wins?
  6. Oct 15

    31. Pitt vs. Boston College: Will Pitt Find A Solution at Quarterback?

    Pitt football is looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss to North Carolina, but major questions remain at quarterback heading into Saturday's matchup against Boston College. On this episode of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris previews Pitt vs. Boston College, starting with the biggest question facing the Panthers: Can Holden Geriner bounce back, and how short should his leash be if the offense struggles again? Then, we break down both sides of the matchup: 1. Pitt's Quarterback Situation: Why Geriner deserves another opportunity, what needs to improve, and when Pat Narduzzi might need to consider a change. 2. When Boston College Has the Ball: A closer look at dual-threat quarterback Mason McKenzie, what makes him dangerous, and whether Pitt's defense can continue its history of limiting mobile quarterbacks. 3. When Pitt Has the Ball: What Boston College does well defensively, how the Eagles have kept games competitive, and what Pitt needs to do to establish its offense and avoid costly turnovers. Keys to the Game & Prediction: The biggest factors that will determine whether Pitt gets back on track against Boston College. Can the Panthers respond after their first loss, or will their quarterback struggles continue? -- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro05:00 - In The News: Pitt's QB Situation18:26 - Previewing The Game: When BC Has the Football28:11 - Previewing The Game: When Pitt Has the Football35:09 - Predictions and Previewing Other ACC Games

    31. Pitt vs. Boston College: Will Pitt Find A Solution at Quarterback?
  7. Oct 13

    30. Jaylen Warren is a Top 3 Running Back in the NFL | Steelers Beat Colts 34-22

    Jaylen Warren put on a show as the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Indianapolis Colts 34-22, and his performance might have been the biggest reason Pittsburgh's offense found so much success. In Episode 30 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris breaks down Warren's explosive plays, his efficiency as both a runner and receiver, and how his versatility opened things up for the rest of the Steelers offense. On defense, Pittsburgh did an impressive job containing Jonathan Taylor and forcing the Colts to settle for field goals instead of touchdowns. But while the defense did enough to secure the victory, questions remain about the Steelers' pass coverage. Chris also discusses ongoing concerns with Pittsburgh's special teams units, both in coverage and in the return game, before briefly looking ahead to the Steelers' upcoming matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Topics include: Jaylen Warren's outstanding performance against IndianapolisHow Warren makes the entire Steelers offense more dangerousPittsburgh's success containing Jonathan TaylorThe Steelers' bend-but-don't-break defensive performanceContinued concerns with pass defense and special teamsA quick look ahead to Steelers vs. Buccaneers-- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro04:19 - Jaylen Warren's Dominant Day15:14 - Other Offensive Players Who Impressed vs. Colts20:20 - An Up and Down Defensive Performance26:17 - The Impact of Patrick Graham Moving to the Sideline29:42 - Special Teams Continues to Struggle33:06 - Wrapping Up and Previewing Week 6

    30. Jaylen Warren is a Top 3 Running Back in the NFL | Steelers Beat Colts 34-22
  8. Oct 12

    29. Pitt Football Has a Quarterback Problem | North Carolina Recap

    Pitt Football has a quarterback problem, and Saturday's loss to North Carolina made that painfully clear. In Episode 29 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris breaks down Pitt's loss to UNC, Holden Geriner's struggles in his first start replacing Mason Heintschel, and the coaching decisions that helped shape the outcome. Was offensive coordinator Kade Bell's game plan really the problem? Pitt found early success with a quick passing attack and running game, but North Carolina adjusted, forcing Geriner to make more difficult throws and decisions. Despite Bell scheming receivers open, Geriner struggled to find them, and his accuracy deteriorated as the game progressed. We also examine Pat Narduzzi's decision to go for it on fourth down instead of taking a field goal, questionable short-yardage play calls, Ja'Kyrian Turner's injury, and why Pitt's defense once again did enough to win. Finally, we look ahead to Boston College and the biggest question facing Pitt Football: Can the coaching staff adjust the offense to help Geriner succeed, or is it time to consider Corey Dailey at quarterback? Narduzzi has publicly backed Geriner, but does that mean the quarterback competition is closed? Topics covered: Holden Geriner's performance against North CarolinaKade Bell's offensive game plan and play callingPitt's controversial fourth-down decisionsAnother strong performance from Pitt's defenseCorey Dailey and Pitt's quarterback optionsWhat needs to change before Pitt faces Boston College-- Subscribe everywhere » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.transistor.fm/subscribe  PFP Website » https://pittsburghfootballpodcast.com/ Join our Mailing List! » https://mailchi.mp/f0b2fd6460f5/pittsburgh-football-podcast-mailing-list-sign-up  -- TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - Intro04:34 - Pitt's Defense Was Outstanding vs. UNC12:25 - Breaking Down Pitt's Offensive Struggles22:57 - Should Pitt Have Run the Ball More?28:58 - Who Should Start at QB vs. Boston College?38:15 - Is Pitt's Backup QB Position a Problem?42:28 - Listener Reaction From The Game

    29. Pitt Football Has a Quarterback Problem | North Carolina Recap

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Pitt. Steelers. Football. A lifelong fan talking the game and building a community for people who love it.

You Might Also Like