Best Awfully Serious Podcasts (2024)

1
Pirates' Future Obscured by Smoke 33:05

1+ y ago33:05

33:05

Mark Madden and Tim Benz ask if Pirates players and fans should be out in the toxic wildfire smoke clogging Pittsburgh's air. And how can this team find ways to improve in the near future? Subscribe to the Mark Madden: Unfiltered Podcast, presented by BetRivers.By BetRivers Network

1
2023 NHL Awards Recap & Thoughts on Penguins' Prospects 38:04

1+ y ago38:04

38:04

Mark Madden and Tim Benz recap the 2023 NHL awards and ponder the Penguins' future.By BetRivers Network

1
Tom Barasso Finally Makes the Hall of Fame 35:52

1+ y ago35:52

35:52

Mark Madden and Tim Benz discuss NHL goalie Tom Barasso finally reaching the Hall of Fame. Barasso helped the Penguins win back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992.By BetRivers Network

1
Why Are Sports Movies So Bad These Days? 33:20

1+ y ago33:20

33:20

Mark Madden and Tim Benz dive into pop culture, including their takes on sports movies of this century. Why have recent sports movies been so poor compared to older releases?By BetRivers Network

1
Swift-mania Takes Over Pittsburgh & Pirates Keep Struggling 27:03

1+ y ago27:03

27:03

Tim Benz and Tom Opferman discuss Taylor Swift's conquest of Pittsburgh. And they break down the Pirates' continuing struggles.By BetRivers Network

1
Pittsburgh Media Legend Stan Savran Passes 30:37

1+ y ago30:37

30:37

Tim Benz and Tom Opferman discuss the passing of Pittsburgh media legend Stan Savran, who spent nearly five decades in television and radio. They also offer their thoughts on the Pirates' upcoming series vs the Cubs.By BetRivers Network

1
"Depressing" Pirates Lose Series to the Awful A's 32:16

1+ y ago32:16

32:16

Mark Madden and Tim Benz discuss the Pirates' disappointing series loss to the abysmal Oakland A’s.By BetRivers Network

1
Is Andrew McCutchen Overrated? 32:19

1+ y ago32:19

32:19

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss Andrew McCutchen and his impact on the MLB. Is his recent revival just a reminder that he's overrated?By BetRivers Network

1
Penguins Hire Ex-Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas as President 34:05

1+ y ago34:05

34:05

Mark Madden and Tim Benz discuss the Penguins' hiring of Kyle Dubas as president of hockey operations. How will Dubas leverage his new powers during the offseason?By BetRivers Network

1
Penguins Must Make Serious Roster Moves 32:45

1+ y ago32:45

32:45

Mark Madden digs into Penguins' offseason questions. What sort of roster moves should Pittsburgh make? Tom Opferman joins the show to discuss hockey and more.By BetRivers Network

1
Pittsburgh Sports Preview with Tim Benz 33:48

1+ y ago33:48

33:48

Tim Benz joins Mark Madden to talk the latest with Pittsburg sports. Plus, their thoughts on the NHL playoffs.By BetRivers Network

1
The Penguins' Search for a GM Continues 30:25

1+ y ago30:25

30:25

Mark Madden offers his NHL playoffs MVPs so far this postseason. And he discusses the Penguins' GM search with Tom Opferman.By BetRivers Network

1
What's Next? The Impact of College Football Conference Shakeups 32:26

1+ y ago32:26

32:26

Mark Madden and Tim Benz ponder the consequences of perpetual college football conference shakeups. Plus, their thoughts on the ongoing Penguins GM search.By BetRivers Network

1
Steelers to Re-sign Mason Rudolph for No. 3 QB Role 35:12

1+ y ago35:12

35:12

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss what value Mason Rudolph brings to the Steelers, and how his new contract will affect Mitch Trubisky and Kenny Pickett.By BetRivers Network

1
Tim & Tom Weigh in on NHL and Pirates Action 29:09

1+ y ago29:09

29:09

Tim Benz and Tom Opferman step in for Mark Madden. You'll hear their thoughts on NHL playoff action and the Pirates' recent losing streak.By BetRivers Network

1
Top 3 Problems with the Steelers 30:55

1+ y ago30:55

30:55

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss the biggest weaknesses in the current Steelers lineup. How will this roster stack up in the AFC next season? Plus, an update on the Pirates, who just snapped a seven-game skid.By BetRivers Network

1
NHL Playoffs Update and the Decline of Hockey on TV 33:12

1+ y ago33:12

33:12

Mark Madden and Tim Benz chat about the Stanley Cup Playoffs and the poor TV coverage of the events. In spite of terrible broadcasting choices, the matchups themselves are plenty intriguing.By BetRivers Network

1
Analyzing Steelers' 2023 NFL Draft Picks 32:51

1+ y ago32:51

32:51

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss the Steelers' 2023 draft picks. Will Broderick Jones, Joey Porter Jr., Keeanu Benton, Darnell Washington, and other selections propel Pittsburgh back into contention?By BetRivers Network

1
On Draft Day, Mark Madden Ranks AFC QBs 33:17

1+ y ago33:17

33:17

On Draft Day, Mark Madden and Tim Benz decide to have some fun and "draft" the QBs of the AFC. How will they choose from superstars like Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Patrick Mahomes? Plus, thoughts on the Pirates' current situation.By BetRivers Network

1
Steelers NFL Draft Options & NHL Playoffs Reaction 35:27

1+ y ago35:27

35:27

Who will the Steelers take with their first pick in the draft? And would Joey Porter Jr. really be the right choice? Plus, thoughts on the NHL playoffs and Bryan Reynolds' 8-year extension.By BetRivers Network

1
Penguins GM Opening: "This job is not attractive" 32:41

1+ y ago32:41

32:41

Mark Madden and Tim Benz ponder the possibilities of the Steelers getting the #9 pick in the NFL Draft. And they discuss why any decent general manager would really want the Penguins job.By BetRivers Network

1
Early Look at Steelers 2023 NFL Draft Strategy 33:23

1+ y ago33:23

33:23

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman talk Steelers free agency moves and current NFL Draft possibilities. Plus, thoughts on the Penguins' immediate future.By BetRivers Network

1
Penguins 16-Season Playoff Streak Comes to an End 34:02

1+ y ago34:02

34:02

Mark Madden and Tim Benz lament the end of the Penguins' 16-season playoff streak. No one knows what's next for the team -- but there's plenty of blame to go around after this season's disappointments.By BetRivers Network

1
This Year's Penguins Team Just Isn't Very Good 32:57

1+ y ago32:57

32:57

Mark Madden says the PGA and LIV tours could set aside their differences and create special events featuring the world's top golfers. Plus, this year's Penguins team just really isn't that good. And how much difference does it really make if the Ravens don't sign Lamar Jackson?By BetRivers Network

1
If Hextall Goes, the Penguins Could Struggle to Attract New GM 31:30

1+ y ago31:30

31:30

In this episode of the Mark Madden: Unfiltered podcast, Mark and Tom Opferman discuss the performance of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Penguins, as well as the hockey team's ability to snag a top GM. Plus, insights on the upcoming NFL draft and more.By BetRivers Network

1
Kris Letang's 1000th Game Amid the Penguins' Postseason Push 33:24

1+ y ago33:24

33:24

The Mark Madden Unfiltered podcast celebrates Chris Letang, who played his 1000th NHL game on Sunday. Mark and Tom Opferman also dive into some postgame drama following the women's basketball title game and review Brian Reynolds' contract situation with the Pirates.By BetRivers Network

1
It's MLB Opening Day and Expectations are Low For the Pittsburgh Pirates 31:26

1+ y ago31:26

31:26

Mark Madden and Tim Benz chat about MLB Opening Day 2023 and dive into the prospects for the Pittsburgh Pirates. The expectations for this year's squad are low -- how will this outlook affect betting in the NL Central?By BetRivers Network

1
Mark Madden on Brian Reynolds and the Blue Blood-less Final Four 32:11

1+ y ago32:11

32:11

Mark Madden once again addresses the talk around whether the Pirates will sign Brian Reynolds. And he laments the lack of big-name teams in the NCAA's Final Four. He says that this could be the only season in which these particular four teams may ever have a chance to win a national title.By BetRivers Network

1
Ways to Predict the Players the Steelers will Draft 34:04

1+ y ago34:04

34:04

Mark Madden has a few tips to help you predict whom the Steelers may draft. Also, is there hope in sight for the Penguins to make the post-season?By BetRivers Network

1
Win-and-In for Pitt in the ACC & the Meat-Grinder Combine 35:21

1+ y ago35:21

35:21

Mark Madden looks at the NFL Combine and the storylines and theories that come out of it. Is Pitt into the NCAA tourney without a win in the ACC tournament?By BetRivers Network

1
Reactions as Nashville Predators trade Mikael Granlund to Penguins 33:10

1+ y ago33:10

33:10

Mark Madden and his co-host Tim Benz discuss the recent Granlund trade and express their disappointment with the move. They believe that the Penguins did not improve with this trade and may have just swapped out sub-mediocre players for a more expensive one. Plus, thoughts on the NFL Combine, Jalen Carter, and more.…

1
Pitt Ranked #25 As NCAA Tourney Nears, Plus Penguins' Playoff Hopes 33:03

1+ y ago33:03

33:03

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss the Pitt men's basketball team's recent ranking, their chances of entering the tournament, and their upcoming game against Notre Dame. They dive into Pittsburgh Penguins updates and the team's chances in the playoffs. Plus, thoughts on the NFL roughing-the-passer review and the MLB pitch clock.…

1
XFL Live Betting Possibilities & NFL Contract Updates 36:45

1+ y ago36:45

36:45

Mark Madden and Tim Benz dive into the XFL's live betting opportunities due to its tricked-up scoring situations. They then discuss the potential of the XFL and USFL leagues, questioning why players would choose to play for low wages and risk injuries for a league that may not lead to a long-term career. Plus, Steelers updates and insights on Lamar…

1
Penguins Struggling to Find Momentum in Crowded East 27:18

1+ y ago27:18

27:18

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss the Daytona 500, XFL, Tiger Woods, and other sports news from the past weekend. And after another deflating loss to the Islanders, the Penguins have no clear path forward this season.By BetRivers Network

1
Pitt Basketball Tourney Hopes & Bryan Reynolds' Contract Situation 35:14

1+ y ago35:14

35:14

Mark Madden and Tim Benz ask whether Pitt's basketball team could make the NCAA tournament and speculate on how the Pirates will handle the Bryan Reynolds situation. Plus, an update on the Penguins and the impending trade deadline.By BetRivers Network

1
Bad JuJu as Steelers Steel Themselves for Battle in Stacked AFC 31:49

1+ y ago31:49

31:49

Mark Madden and Tim Benz dive into the JuJu Smith-Schuster social media silliness. And how will Kenny Pickett and the Steelers compete in an AFC stacked with the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow?By BetRivers Network

1
Best Player vs. Best Roster - Who Will Win Super Bowl LVII? 34:50

1+ y ago34:50

34:50

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman preview Super Bowl LVII featuring Eagles v Chiefs. They look back to great moments in Super Bowl history and weigh the stakes of this Sunday's game for each team -- what will their legacies ultimately look like? You'll also hear their takes on the gambling habits of sports stars like Phil Mickelson, John Daly, Michael J…

1
A Penguins Update & The Best Super Bowl Snacks 30:56

1+ y ago30:56

30:56

Mark Madden laments a poor NHL All-Star Weekend and checks in on the Penguins with Tom Opferman. Plus, a discussion about the top three Super Bowl snacks and thoughts on Mitch Trubisky's future.By BetRivers Network

1
Tom Brady Retires (Again) & "Cocaine Bear" Hype 28:58

1+ y ago28:58

28:58

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman chat about Tom Brady's second retirement and his legacy. Despite Brady's pile of Super Bowl trophies, they question whether he's the GOAT. And the guys ramp up their anticipation for a new movie, "Cocaine Bear."By BetRivers Network

1
Is Patrick Mahomes the Most Talented QB of All Time? 32:51

2y ago32:51

32:51

Mark Madden and Tim Benz dig into some Super Bowl news and updates, including comments about Patrick Mahomes' talent compared to other great QBs. How would Kenny Pickett match up against today's playoff-ready quarterbacks, like Joe Burrow? Plus, a recap of NFL Championship weekend.By BetRivers Network

1
Picking the Winners of the NFL Conference Championships 33:45

2y ago33:45

33:45

Mark Madden and Tim Benz speculate about the futures of Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers. They also offer their NFL picks for Conference Championship Weekend. Can Mahomes overcome his ankle injury to finally beat the Bengals? And Brock Purdy faces the challenge of his young career against the Eagles.By BetRivers Network

1
An Early Look at 2023 Steelers Free Agency Scenarios 28:24

2y ago28:24

28:24

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman take an early look at Steelers' free agency & trade options. The team has some serious weaknesses and Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan will need a solid strategy to improve the roster.By BetRivers Network

1
2023 NFL Divisional Round Preview 28:30

2y ago28:30

28:30

Mark Madden and Tim Benz preview NFL Divisional Round matchups. The Chiefs, they say, have earned the right to be heavy favorites against the Jags. The Eagles-Giants spread, on the other hand, is probably too large. Plus, 49ers v Cowboys and Bills v Bengals. And as always, comments on the latest Steelers developments.…

1
Pirates Should Try To Sign Trevor Bauer in Spite of PR Risks 30:27

2y ago30:27

30:27

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman say that the Pirates should take a swing at Trevor Bauer in spite of the inevitable PR blowback. Should the Steelers try to nab WR Jordan Addison? Plus, a recap of a wild and crazy Wild Card Weekend and a look ahead to the Divisional Round.By BetRivers Network

1
Mitch Trubisky's Raw Deal & Wild Card Weekend Preview 34:25

2y ago34:25

34:25

Mark Madden and Tim Benz break down the Steelers' QB situation and whether Trubisky should've played more this year. They also preview all of this weekend's Super Wild Card matchups.By BetRivers Network

1
Steelers' OC Matt Canada Has Not Been Fired (Yet) 34:01

2y ago34:01

34:01

Mark Madden and Tom Opferman discuss options for the Steelers as they head into a long offseason. Should Matt Canada be retained, and what positions should be addressed in the NFL Draft?By BetRivers Network

1
Steelers' Playoff Odds in an Unsettling Week 18 26:06

2y ago26:06

26:06

Tim Benz and Tom Opferman talk NFL news following MNF and Damar Hamil's life-threatening injury. They also break down Week 18 betting lines and strategies.By BetRivers Network

1
NFL Injury Protocol & An Unprecedented Situation 27:32

2y ago27:32

27:32

Tim Benz and Tom Opferman address the Damar Hamlin injury and how the NFL might respond to this situation at a critical point of the season.By BetRivers Network

1
Week 17 Pittsburgh Steelers Report Card 35:16

2y ago35:16

35:16

Mark Madden and Tim Benz offer their late-season Steelers report card. Kenny Pickett isn't yet an "A" student, but perhaps he just needs to do his homework. Plus, a preview of NFL Week 17 action.By BetRivers Network

1
Steelers are not as Close to being Competitive as the Record Indicates 30:34

2y ago30:34

30:34

Mark Madden is not convinced the Steelers are remotely close to being competitive, despite their record. Would Madden rather have Zach Wilson or Kenny Pickett?By BetRivers Network

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Awfully Serious Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide