
Advertise on podcast: The Pittsburgh Football Podcast by Chris Gates
Rating
5from
This podcast has
36 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Chris GatesExplicit
No
Date created
2026/08/05
Latest episode
2026/10/23
Average duration
45 min.
Release period
2 days
Description
Pitt. Steelers. Football. A lifelong fan talking the game and building a community for people who love it.
Unlock The Pittsburgh Football Podcast by Chris Gates podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details
Email contact information
Direct podcast contact details

Listeners
Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details
Podcast Insights

Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from The Pittsburgh Football Podcast by Chris Gates podcast
36. Steelers vs. Saints: Breakout Opportunity for Pittsburgh's Offense?
2026/10/23
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
35. Is A 24-Team Playoff Good for Pitt? Plus, Previewing Miami
2026/10/22
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?
34. A Wild Comeback, Baffling Decisions & Overtime Drama | Steelers-Bucs Recap
2026/10/20
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
33. Pitt Football Is in Trouble. Can This Season Be Saved? | Boston College Recap
2026/10/19
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
32. Steelers-Buccaneers Preview: Can Pittsburgh Start Stacking Wins?
2026/10/16
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
31. Pitt vs. Boston College: Will Pitt Find A Solution at Quarterback?
2026/10/15
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
30. Jaylen Warren is a Top 3 Running Back in the NFL | Steelers Beat Colts 34-22
2026/10/13
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
29. Pitt Football Has a Quarterback Problem | North Carolina Recap
2026/10/12
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
28. Let's Get Physical: Previewing Steelers-Colts
2026/10/09
The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to bounce back against the Indianapolis Colts, but with rain in the forecast and major questions surrounding Pittsburgh's offensive line and defense, this could be a battle decided in the trenches.
In Episode 28 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris previews Sunday's Steelers-Colts matchup, breaking down what Pittsburgh needs to do on both sides of the football.
When Indianapolis has the ball, can the Steelers slow down Jonathan Taylor and force Daniel Jones into mistakes? And how will Pittsburgh's defense respond with Derrick Harmon on injured reserve, Joey Porter Jr. gone, and injuries creating uncertainty in the secondary?
When the Steelers have the ball, the focus turns to establishing a physical, run-first identity. With Aaron Rodgers taking more sacks than any quarterback in the NFL, can Pittsburgh protect him against a Colts defensive front featuring DeForest Buckner and Laiatu Latu?
Plus, Chris discusses the biggest Steelers headlines from the week, including:
Mike McCarthy's controversial comments about needing to "clean our house" and why they were blown out of proportion.The signings of cornerbacks Sean Murphy-Bunting and Terell Smith.Derrick Harmon's injury and its impact on Pittsburgh's defensive front.The latest injury concerns heading into Sunday's matchup.Why the weather could make running the football and winning at the line of scrimmage more important than ever.Can the Steelers get back above .500 and start establishing the physical identity they've been missing?
All that and more in Episode 28 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast!
--
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 - Intro04:59 - Steelers Have Signed 2 New Cornerbacks11:02 - The Impact of Derrick Harmon’s Injury12:26 - Mike McCarthy’s “Clean Our House” Comments15:00 - When the Colts Have the Ball20:55 - When the Steelers Have the Ball27:51 - A Crucial 4-Game Stretch for the Steelers
27. Previewing Pitt-UNC + Who Is Holden Geriner?
2026/10/08
Pitt is 5-0, ranked No. 25 in the country and preparing to host North Carolina — but the outlook for the rest of the season changed dramatically when Mason Heintschel went down with a season-ending injury at Virginia Tech.
Now, fifth-year senior Holden Geriner takes over at quarterback.
In Episode 27 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris previews Pitt vs. North Carolina and breaks down what we actually know about Geriner, from his recruiting pedigree and arm talent to the limited but encouraging opportunities he's had in Pitt's offense.
We also take a closer look at Bill Belichick's North Carolina team, Billy Edwards Jr. and the Tar Heels' offense, where Pitt should have advantages on Saturday, and why establishing the run could be critical to helping Geriner settle into his new role.
Finally, we zoom out and look at the rest of Pitt's schedule. Losing Heintschel unquestionably changes this team — but does it really need to change the expectations for a 5-0 Pitt team that has found multiple ways to win?
Pitt's season has changed. It doesn't mean it's over.
--
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
--
My interview with the Tar Pit podcast » https://www.youtube.com/live/x-WCPIYXZR4?si=P9ZEbNMAU6Uv1XCS
--
TIME STAMPS:
00:00 - Intro02:57 - Holden Geriner Names Pitt Starting QB06:29 - Other Personnel Updates09:04 - UNC News & Notes15:53 - When UNC Has the Ball...23:06 - When Pitt Has the Ball...33:36 - Who is Holden Geriner?40:49 - Expectations in the Wake of Mason Heintschel's Season Ending Injury
26. Pitt Beats Virginia Tech But Loses Mason Heintschel | Where Do the Panthers go From Here?
2026/10/05
Today's episode is JAM PACKED, so let's get right to it.
Pitt beat Virginia Tech on Friday night, but the bigger storyline is that Mason Heintschel is out for the season with a torn ACL. Despite losing their starting quarterback, the Panthers still put up a valiant effort in Blacksburg to come out with a win. And there are tons of hot topics to debate from the game.
Was Virginia Tech's final field goal attempt actually wide, or did it go through? Did Cam Lindsey intercept that ball, or should it have gone to the receiver? Should Pitt have blitzed on fourth-and-5, and run the ball more down the stretch?
I'm diving into all of that, and a bunch more.
And at the end of the episode, we break down where Pitt goes from here with Holden Geriner taking over the starting QB job.
I hope you enjoy it, and if you have a moment please make sure you're subscribed and leave a 5-star rating and review!
--
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 - Introduction05:34 - Recapping Pitt’s win + Mason Heintschel’s injury26:23 - Cam Lindsey’s interception was the correct call28:58 - Was the field goal good, or no?34:49 - Recapping the Narduzzi vs. Franklin storyline39:24 - Pat Narduzzi’s post-game comments44:12 - The road ahead without Mason Heintschel
25. Steelers-Browns Recap: Pittsburgh Has an Identity Problem
2026/10/04
The Pittsburgh Steelers had a chance to head into their mini-bye at 3-1 and atop the AFC North. Instead, they leave Cleveland 2-2 after a frustrating 27-24 loss to the Browns.
In Episode 25 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris breaks down an incredibly inconsistent night for Pittsburgh. The Steelers opened the game looking dominant, disappeared for much of the next two quarters, and finally came alive again late — only for the defense to surrender the game-winning field goal in the final seconds.
Chris breaks down what went wrong, the Browns’ ability to pressure Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf finally stretching the field vertically, and why Pittsburgh needs to lean much more heavily on Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and a physical offensive identity.
There are also major questions defensively. The secondary struggled without Joey Porter Jr., explosive plays continue to be a problem, and Pittsburgh may eventually have to look outside the organization for help at cornerback.
Plus, what should we make of all the visible frustration on the Steelers sideline? Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy exchanged words, T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward were visibly frustrated, and the entire team appeared increasingly agitated as the night went along.
Finally, Chris looks ahead at a critical four-game stretch before the bye and explains why the Steelers still have an opportunity to turn things around — but need to start stacking wins immediately.
--
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 - Introduction05:02 - An up and down game, quarter by quarter16:47 - The Steelers looked FRUSTRATED all game22:41 - The Steelers offense lacks an identity29:41 - Clear problems on defense (that are hard to fix)34:32 - The next four games for the Steelers are MASSIVE
24. EMERGENCY EPISODE: Joey Porter Jr. Traded to the Dallas Cowboys
2026/10/01
EMERGENCY PODCAST: Joey Porter Jr. is no longer a Pittsburgh Steeler.
The Steelers traded Porter to the Dallas Cowboys late Wednesday night, receiving a sixth-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft and a second-round pick in 2028.
In this emergency episode of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris reacts to the stunning trade and breaks down how the relationship between Porter and the Steelers deteriorated to this point.
How much blame belongs to Joey Porter Jr. for the way he handled his contract dispute and lingering "back injury"? How much blame belongs to the Steelers for failing to reach an extension with one of their best young defensive players? And what does the return Pittsburgh received say about Porter's value around the NFL?
Chris also examines the growing questions surrounding GM Omar Khan, the Steelers' recent track record of moving on from talented players, and what losing Porter means for a secondary that already desperately needed him.
It's an emergency reaction to one of the biggest Steelers stories of the season.
23. Pitt vs. Virginia Tech Preview: It’s Time to Find Out How Good Pitt Really Is
2026/10/01
Pitt is 4-0. Virginia Tech is 4-0. On Friday night in a sold-out Lane Stadium, we're finally going to learn a lot more about both teams.
In Episode 23 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris previews Pitt's massive ACC road matchup against Virginia Tech and breaks down the biggest storylines, matchups and questions heading into Friday night.
How will Pitt handle its first road environment of the season? Can Mason Heintschel deliver against a Virginia Tech defense that has generated 17 sacks through four games? Can Pitt's defensive front take advantage of injuries along the Hokies' offensive line? And how will the Panthers defend quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer, tight end Luke Reynolds and a Virginia Tech offense that has found multiple ways to win?
Chris also discusses the renewed Pat Narduzzi–James Franklin storyline, Pitt's injury report, why the running game could be critical for the Panthers and what a win — or the manner in which Pitt loses — could mean for expectations the rest of the season.
Plus, Chris makes his Pitt–Virginia Tech prediction and takes a look around the rest of the ACC schedule.
--
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 - Intro04:49 - In the News: Injury updates12:25 - Narduzzi vs. Franklin18:02 - Pitt's record in week day games21:26 - A measuring stick game for both teams25:51 - Previewing the game when VT has the ball31:43 - Previewing the game when Pitt has the ball42:16 - Predicting the game and a look around the ACC
22. Did the Steelers Just Fix Their Offense? | Bengals Recap + Browns Preview
2026/09/29
The Steelers finally showed us the offense we've been waiting to see.
Pittsburgh beat the Cincinnati Bengals 30-27 to improve to 2-1, and Mike McCarthy's changes along the offensive line completely changed the complexion of the offense. Max Iheanachor and Brock Hoffman stepped into the starting lineup, Jaylen Warren exploded for 176 yards from scrimmage, Aaron Rodgers finally had time to operate from a clean pocket, and suddenly the Steelers' passing game looked functional.
So, did the Steelers just find their answer on offense?
In Episode 22 of the Pittsburgh Football Podcast, Chris breaks down everything that stood out from Pittsburgh's win over Cincinnati, including the revamped offensive line, Warren's huge performance, encouraging signs from DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson, Darnell Washington's emergence, the defensive struggles against Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Derrick Harmon's game-clinching strip-sack, and a massive day for Steelers special teams.
Then it's a quick turnaround to Thursday Night Football.
Chris previews Steelers-Browns in Cleveland, examining Deshaun Watson and the Browns' surprising 2-1 start, Cleveland's biggest offensive threats, its dangerous defensive front, and why the Steelers' new-look offensive line faces an immediate test.
Was Sunday's offensive explosion the beginning of something real — or just one good game?
Plus, Chris gives his Steelers-Browns prediction and shares reactions from Steelers fans after Sunday's win.
--
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 - Intro02:59 - Changes on the Offensive Line Make a Massive Impact09:02 - Jaylen Warren's Big Day Running the Football11:52 - Aaron Rodgers and the Passing Game Flourish20:30 - Defensive Struggles Against the Bengals27:12 - Special Teams Made a Big Difference29:24 - Previewing the Browns37:15 - Biggest Matchup of the Game for the Steelers40:00 - Predicting Steelers-Browns
Podcast reviews
Read The Pittsburgh Football Podcast by Chris Gates podcast reviews
Podcast sponsorship advertising
Start advertising on The Pittsburgh Football Podcast by Chris Gates relevant audience podcasts
You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts

4.838342000
Entrepreneurs on Fire
John Lee Dumas of EOFire

4.6652432197
The Charlie Kirk Show
Charlie Kirk

4.6253602000
The Glenn Beck Program
Mercury Radio Arts

4.682521300
The Daily Beast Podcast
The Daily Beast, Joanna Coles

4.721121501
Everyone's Business (But Mine) with Kara Berry
Kara Berry

4.922971182
Dropping Bombs
Brad Lea: CEO, Entrepreneur, and Host of The Bottom Line

4.818402000
The Cabral Concept
Dr. Stephen Cabral

4.746791058
Tom Bilyeu's Impact Theory
Impact Theory

4.8259091496
Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey
Blaze Podcast Network

4.930941700
Arseblog Arsecast, The Arsenal Podcast
arseblog.com