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On this episode of Steelers Central, we take a trip to Europe as the Steelers look to continue their dominance against the NFC South with their matchup against the 2-4 Saints. We'll get into what the Steelers need to do to beat the Saints including limiting the self-inflicted wounds, keeping Rodgers clean, and stopping the opposing teams' wideouts. Then of course there is the matchup to watch like an HC vs DC matchup, a veteran corner in new threads vs a young and upcoming WR, and a backup LT vs. a veteran OLB. On the Steelers side, their run blocking vs. a Saints run defense that has struggled, a star WR vs a struggling defensive backfield, and possession down success for both sides of the ball. See who I think wins this matchup! 0:00-10:11 Steelers vs. Saints: Keys to the Game 10:12-25:55 Steelers vs. Saints: Matchups to Watch 25:55-29:43 Steelers vs. Saints: Prediction

On this episode of Steelers Central, we have another victory Monday as the Steelers stack wins for the first time this year, rallying to beat the Bucs 26-19 after trailing 13 -0 entering the fourth quarter. A stout defensive performance kept the Steelers in the game throughout, while the offense, as inconsistent as it's been, rallied in the fourth quarter to put together consecutive scoring drives and win it in OT with a 12-play, almost seven-minute gauntlet. The Steelers should not have won this game, and probably wouldn't have if they were facing a better opponent. Strong performances from Jalen Ramsey and Nick Herbig, who had two sacks, and Keanu Benton, who flashed along the defensive line, helped stop Bucky Irving. Jamel Dean had a nice homecoming with an INT and six PD that should have sealed the deal. Offensively, Germie Bernard and DK Metcalf both had 11 receptions and kept the offense moving, while special teams performance from Chris Boswell and Cameron Johnston kept the team in the game when the offense fluttered. On the other hand, poor clock management by Mike McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers refusing to push the ball down the field and holding onto the ball too long hindered the Steelers' offense. Special teams remained an issue as the team racked up three first-half penalties, including one on a return into Tampa Bay territory by Kaden Wetjen. Lastly, third-down conversions remain a consistent issue, as the team was one-for-nine on third-down conversions until late in the third quarter. 0:00-17:20 Steelers vs. Bucs recap 17:21-36:22 Steelers vs. Bucs: Winners and Losers

On this episode of Steelers Central, we are onto Tampa Bay as the Steelers travel down south to the state of Florida to face off against a Bucs team that is coming off its first win of the season in Dallas. See what I think will be the keys for both teams if they want to come away with a win on Sunday as the Steelers look for their first road win and the Bucs look to win at home for the first time this year. Next we'll get into the big matchups that decide the game including both RBs vs the opposing linebackers, the Steelers veteran captain vs. the Bucs struggling left guard, and Pittsburgh's up and coming interior offensive line duo vs. the what seems to be one of the best run stuffing interior defensive linemen in the NFL. Lastly, hear why I think the Steelers are able to stack wins, and head into Paris 4-2 against the Saints. 0:00-3:05: Steelers vs. Bucs intro 3:06-12:05: Keys to Victory 12:06-26:16: Matchups to Watch 26:17-28:23: Game Pick

It’s another victory Monday in the Steel City, as the Steelers defeated the Colts 34-22, and the Colts' last win in Pittsburgh dates back to 2008. The Jay-Train continues to look at a career year after another 180 scrimmage yards and a two-TD day, with both TDs coming from 50-plus yards out. Aaron Rodgers was sharp, posting his most efficient outing of the year, while the defense shut down Jonathan Taylor and employed a bend-but-don’t-break approach, allowing just one TD and five FGs. Listen to see my big takeaways from this game as the team now looks to stack wins for the first time this season. Then it’s time for the annual winners-and-losers segment, where we look at the Steelers' biggest contributors and hindrances in their performance against the Colts. It starts with Jaylen Warren’s most productive afternoon and Aaron Rodgers's efficient outing, while Germie Bernard and Pat Friermuth combined for 11 receptions, 126 yards, and two TDs. Defensively, the run defense stuffed Jonathan Taylor, while the third-down and RZ defenses stalled the Colts' offense. Jalen Ramsey was the glue on the backend while Asante Samuel shook off a rocky start to end the day with four pass breakups. For the losers, Brock Hoffman had a rough afternoon while the pass rush never got home against Daniel Jones and company. The kickoff and return teams remain suspect as the Colts average over 10 more yards per return in this game against the Steelers. 0:00-18:41: Steelers vs. Colts Breakdown 18:42-37:54: Steelers Winners and Losers

The Steelers fell to the Browns Thursday night 27-24 in a game that was very reminiscent if past games that have taken place in Cleveland. The Steelers jumped out to an early lead, a turnover swung the momentum, the Steelers fell behind by multiple possessions, they come back, and they lose off a late game drive by the Browns. These games in Cleveland are all the same, and Pittsburgh has some things to be worried about going forward. Rodgers was up and down holding onto the ball, the team didn't utilize Jaylen Warren enough, and their secondary depth is running thing as that group continues to struggle. The Steelers struggled in this game, and some things stood out in a bad way: the tackling, Michael Pittman's struggles, Daylen Everette getting thrust into the fold, Keeanu Benton' s missed opportunity, Rayshawn Jenkins getting benched, and Chris Boswell's early season struggles. The Steelers did have some guys that did standout though with Jaylen Warren stacking performances, Roman Wilson being a legit deep threat, DK Metcalf's first strong performance of the year, Darnell Washington continuing to make an impact, Robert Spears Jennings taking advantage of a benching, and TJ Watt making splash plays to try and turn the tide. Lastly, I give my thought on the Joey Porter Jr. trade, and why this whole saga is a mess on both sides. The Steelers royally mishandled this contract extension by not starting extensions early, and should have traded him before it got to this point as keeping him on the injury report gave him an out. JPJ on the other hand should have realized that sitting out would get him nowhere and ruing his public image. Did it get him out yes, but he did get a contract worth $28 million AAV, but as expected the issued were over fully guaranteed money after the first year. It became clear around the league that teams just didn't value JPJ as a clear top five corner and the offers showed that. He can talk about worth and value all he wants, but in the end, the Cowboys wouldn't muster up the requisite draft capital at first. 0:00-21:15 Steelers vs. Browns Review 21:16-34:20 Steelers vs. Browns: Winners and Losers 34:21-47:20 The end of the JPJ saga

On this episode of Steelers Central, we discuss the Steelers offensive showcase vs. the Bengals, and what Mike McCarthy did to navigate a win vs. an improved divisional opponent in his first AFC North tilt. Next, we'll break down the winners and losers of this game that include stout performance by the front five, a dominant performance from Jaylen Warren who had over 170 yards, Darnell Washington bully ball, another strong outing from Patrick Queen, and a second-year defensive lineman making a signature play to win the game. There were some losers though like a pass rush featuring TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig that did not show up, Asante Samuel getting benched, TO mismanagement that had some operation issues, and two drops by a third year WR, one of which turned the momentum of the game. 0:00-15:18 Steelers vs. Bengals Recap 15:19-35:59 Steelers vs. Bengals: Winners and Losers

On this episode of Steelers Central, is it time to panic already about this Steelers offense that has one TD through two games and 31st in 3rd down conversions, and scored just three points last week. What should the team do to fix that? Next, its time to move onto the 2-0 Bengals, see why I think the difference in this game will be who can protect their QB better, and execute on third down. The matchups to decide this game will be major, and the Steelers needing to shut down Jamar Chase and Tee Higgins. TJ Watt, Alex Highmith, and Nick Herbig needing to beat Amarius Mims and Orlando Brown. Whhile the offense needs their RBS and TEs to expose the Bengals backers while Spencer Anderson having to shut down Dexter Lawrence. See which team I think takes home the dub! 0:00-10:31: Patriots Recap 10:32-14:01: Bengals Preview 14:02-26:00: Keys to Victory 26:00-42:05: Matchups to Watch 42:06-44:26: Game Picks

On this episode of Steelers Central, it's the first official victory Monday for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they beat the Atlanta Falcons 20-13 in what was a sloppy offensive performance that they would not have won without a resurgent defensive performance from TJ Watt. We'll get into my takeaways from the game, what stood out to me, what disappointed me, and the narrative around that this is the same type of win as a Mike Tomlin team. Then we'll get into the winners and losers from Sunday's game with great performances from the vets: Watt, Highsmith, and Heyward, a promising performance from a third year linebacker, newcomers Jaquan Brisker and Jamel Dean, and Pat Friermuth. There some struggles as well from DK Metcalf, the right side of the offensive line, special teams, and third down offense. Lastly, the Joey Porter Jr. has taken a bad turn with him not playing Week One. Mike McCarthy took the heat saying it was his decision that he did not play. Why I buy that for one week, but not this week going forward. Also new contract rumors saying that spat is over guaranteed money with the Steelers reportedly only offering $33 million in total guarantees that is inexcusable if you're the Steelers. Hear what I predict what happens in this situation and how this is a situation that may not end well for either side. 0:00-24:00 Steelers vs. Falcons Breakdown 24:01-41:11 Winners and Losers 41:12-56:34 Boiling Point for JPJ Contract Spat

On this episode of Steelers Central, we begin by looking at the Steelers favorable Week One matchup vs. the Falcons. See why Pittsburgh could not have gotten a better opponent, and may be even facing a team without a starting QB. Hear what I think the keys to victory are for both of these teams headed into their Week One tilt including winning the LOS, pressuring Rodgers, and who wins the TO battle. Then we get into some of the key matchups and why the Steelers ILB must play discipline, who guards Drake London, and can Rodgers out with Jeff Ulbrich. 0:00-4:19 Steelers Falcons Preview 4:20-10:38 Keys to Victory 10:39-24:36 Matchups to Watch 24:36-28:26 Final Ruling

On this delayed episode of Steelers Central, I react to the inital 53-man roster, and the questionable decision to keep four QBS. I'll also get into what positions suffered as a result, and the Steelers keeping all 11 rookies. Next, we'll get into some of the holes that remain on the roster including a playmaker on the outside, some depth at the tackle position, and help on the backend. We'll also get into the two trades that opened up one of these holes along with me sounding off on the surprising release of one Steelers fan favorite. The Joey Porter Jr. saga continues with Christian Gonzalez getting a new deal, Joey Porter Jr. returning to practice and tip toeing around some questions while providing some insight about who has been giving him advice and counsel behind the scene as he continues his "ramp up" period for Week One. Then it's time we get into the rookies that I think have the best and worst chance to start over some veterans. Tune into see some key position battles! The AFC Playoff Chase should be a fun one with no real true contender in my opinion. See if I have the Steelers making the playoffs, and my finals record predictions, along with where I have the defending AFC Champs, if Patrick Mahomes gets the Chiefs back, who wins the AFC South, and who gets the number one seed! 0:00-13:50 53-Man Roster 13:51-20:20 Roster Holes Remaining 20:21-29:57 Two Trades and a Surprise Release 29:58-34:47 JPJ Update 34:48-40:15 Which Rookies Start? 40:16-50:15 AFC Playoff Predictions 50:16-57:52 Final Record Prediction

On this episode of Steelers Central, we break down the Steelers last preseason game, a loss to the Buffalo Bills, who proved themselves, and who left a little bit to be desired. Did Will Howard show enough to stay on the 53 man roster? Should Germie Bernard be WR 3? Is Max Iheanachor the best option at RT? Also did players like Robert Spears Jennings and Lew Nichols do enough to secure a roster spot? Next, my take on the latest rumors in the Joey Porter Jr. saga, and why I am not surprised Jalen Ramsey took JPJ's side. The Steelers also have a troubling trend when waiting to pay their star players resulting in paying top dollar and putting themselves in bad situations, why that trend needs to change. The depth at WR still is a concern to me outside the top three. Hear the names the team should be looking at including a recently released Browns WR, a veteran slot WR from Philadelphia, and a bubble guy who toasted the Steelers on the 49ers right now. Lastly, the Steelers restructured DK Metcalf's contract, what that means, and if it 100% means a JPJ contract is coming. 0:00-16:13 Steelers vs Bills Breakdown 16:14-28:55 JPJ Scenarios 28:56-33:42 WR Depth Concerns 33:43-39:16 DK Metcalf Contract Restructure

On this episode of Steelers Central, we break down the Joey Porter Jr. contract situation, and why the Steelers need to get this figured out given their drafting track record. The winners and losers of Friday's preseason game against the Jets including a second year QB, a third year WR, a disappointing effort from the group up front, two veterans making key impacts on the defensive side of the ball, and one player who didn't even play securing a roster spot. Then we'll talk about the coordinator's press conference where one emphasized execution, and the other talked about veteran players setting the tone for their side of the ball. I'll give my 53-man roster predictions like will the team keep four QBS? Who is RB4? How many players are kept on the defensive line? How deep is the WR room? What rookies will be kept on the fringe? What are some of the toughest moves they will have to make? Lastly, which players need this last week of preseason the most? See why Will Howard, Kaleb Johnson, Roman Wilson, Broderick Jones, and one position battle all need to stand out for different reasons. 0:00-14:03 Why Steelers need JPJ 14:04-25:15 Steelers vs Jets Winners and Losers 25:16-38:33 Coordinator Talk 38:34-52:13 Steelers 53-Man Roster Final 52:14-60:38 Prove it Preseason Game

On this episode of Steelers Central, we break down the team's first preseason game and discuss some of the winners and losers from the team's opening victory. The young gun slingers balled out, the rookie wideouts shined, while the defensive line flashed their depth. On the other end, both tackles struggled, the STs and discipline were a mess, and Kaleb Johnson disappeared from the rotation. Next, we talk about the most impressive group for the Steelers thus far, and that's the men in the trenches on the defensive line. They have been a group that has been hyped up in the last couple of years, but see why this is the year they break out. The backend is a little different though with major pieces missing time due to injury. See why I am getting a little worried about the cohesiveness going forward, and what pieces have been stepping up with the stars on the sideline. The linebacker room just got a familiar thumper back in the room with Elandon Roberts. Listen to what makes this such a great addition, and why Roberts is just what this room and defense needed in the middle. Lastly, Keeanu Benton received a four year $72 million extension keeping him in Pittsburgh. Despite some mixed reactions for the fan bases, I am buying into the upside and thinking that went into a forward thinking move in a defense that will feature his strengths a lot more allowing him to blossom. 0:00-17:10 Preseason Week One: Winners and Losers 17:11-23:21 Steelers Strongest Group 23:22-30:42 Secondary Depth Concerns 30:43-35:39 Elandon Roberts Signing 35:40-42:16 Banking on Upside with Benton

On this episode of Steelers Central, I break down Saturday's festivities from the morning coordinator's press conferences to the now Saturday Night Lights instead of Friday Night Lights. I'll give my thought on what the coordinators said as a whole, and some standouts in a second consecutive sloppy performance from the offense. Next, I'll give my takeaways from the week as whole including three standouts on the offensive line as rookie Max Iheanachor was breaking out right before his injury as well as the emergence of some young players along the defensive line. See which WR has caught my eyes as well throughout this process. Then it's time to give a brief update on the QB room including why Mason Rudolph looks to continue to be in pole position for the QB 2 spot. The young guys are still working on consistency to impress the coaching stuff as Drew Allar goes through the ebbs and flows and Will Howards struggles to find his showing despite an impressive performance at Saturday Night Lights. I'll also tell you what rookies have been impressing including Mad Max, Daylen Everette, and Gabe Rubio?? Some guys have also disappointed me in the process including Gennings Dunker, Kaden Wetjen, and some undefined roles for Eli Heidenreich and Riley Nowakowski. Lastly, why I think the Steelers need to make a move for a free safety in what has been a revolving door in the backup safety spots from Robert Spears-Jennings to UDFAs Jack Henderson and Sebastian Castro to vets Rayshawn Jenkins and the recently-cut Darnell Savage. 0:00-23:55: Coordinators/SNL Talk 23:56-33:56 : Padded Practice Standouts 33:57-39:52: Rudolph Leading the Way 39:53-55:28: Rookie Report Card 55:29-61:59: Safety Conundrum

On this episode of Steelers Central, it's time for training camp! I'll give you my takes on what I am most excited to see on both sides of the ball as the team starts it's three week journey. Joey Porter Jr. is not practicing right now due to a supposed back injury so we'll analyze the importance of getting him back healthy in the midst of a contract hold up where he reportedly wants near $30 million a year. Here why I think both sides need to come to an agreement soon especially with Jalen Ramsey out with a knee injury for a couple weeks. Then I'll give my takeaways on the pre training camp press conferences that included no tackling, an update on Broderick Jones health, moving around on both sides of the ball with WRs and OLB, team chemistry, and booming stock in the WR Room. Lastly, I'll go through the first four days of training camp and give my thoughts on the team's surprising best player, early indications on key positional battles, key contributors in the passing game, and who is winning the backup QB battles through the first four practices. 0:00-14:27 What I'm Most Looking Forward to in Training Camp 14:28-22:15 JPJ Contract Situation 22:16-33:40 Press Conference Takeaways 33:41-40:47 PUP List 40:48-66:05 First Week of Camp