Penguin Nation Fans Podcast w/ Gino Leone

Youngstown State came up just short against North Dakota State in a hard-fought 38–30 loss — but the numbers tell a different story. In this episode, Gino breaks down how the Penguins actually outplayed the Bison in many key areas, from total yards to defensive stops, but costly mistakes on special teams and turnovers proved too much to overcome. Hear Gino’s full recap of the game, standout player performances, and why this YSU team looks closer than ever to closing the gap with the FCS elite.
🎙️ Hosted by Gino Leone — follow @Ytown_Nation for more YSU football coverage.
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In this episode, Gino Leone breaks down Youngstown State’s upcoming matchup against powerhouse North Dakota State. He dives into key stats, current trends, and what it will take for the Penguins to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the FCS season. Gino highlights standout players like QB Cole Payton and WR Bryce Lance, examines the strength of NDSU’s defense, and outlines the keys for YSU to stay competitive. Tune in for analysis, insight, and all things Penguin football!
🎙️ Host: Gino Leone🐧 Podcast: Penguin Nation Fans Podcast📅 Matchup: Youngstown State vs. North Dakota State⭐ Don’t forget to leave a five-star review and share the show!

Gino breaks down NDSU’s matchup against YSU, highlighting the Bison’s explosive offense powered by Cole Payton, a dominant offensive line, and a deep receiver group led by Bryce Lance. The episode looks at how NDSU’s physical run scheme and tight end depth stress defenses, and why execution at the edge will be critical for the Penguins. On the defensive side, Gino examines NDSU’s relentless front, disciplined linebackers, and aggressive blitz packages, along with the areas where YSU can find success by staying ahead of the sticks and mixing up playcalling. Special teams impact and field position will also be key, especially with return threat Jackson Williams capable of flipping momentum.

Host Gino Leone is joined by YSU play-by-play voice Robb Schmidt to talk about his career path and what goes into preparing for a Division I call. They also preview the upcoming season, breaking down returning leaders, impact transfers, and how the Penguins are handling expectations.

In this episode, Gino previews Youngstown State’s upcoming matchup against Murray State and breaks down what the Racers bring on both sides of the ball. He looks at the speed and explosiveness in their receiving corps, the lack of a consistent rushing attack, and a defense that has struggled all year. Gino also lays out the keys to the game for the Penguins, including establishing the run and tightening up on special teams. All that and more on the Penguin Nation Fans Podcast!
Amy Wengerd: 
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Youngstown State delivers a signature win, storming back with 21 unanswered in the fourth quarter to beat No. 10 Illinois State 40-35. Beau Brungard was unstoppable, totaling 528 yards and five touchdowns, while Solomon and Walters came up big in the passing game. The defense forced two key interceptions and YSU dominated time of possession, outgaining the Redbirds 561–348. A huge playoff résumé boost as the Penguins move to 4-3 (1-2 MVFC).

This week on the Penguin Nation Fans Podcast, Gino Leone breaks down Youngstown State’s upcoming matchup with Illinois State. The Redbirds bring a balanced offense led by dual-threat QB Tommy Rittenhouse and standout receiver Daniel Sobkowicz, but defensive issues in the secondary could be a key factor. Gino dives into the strengths and weaknesses of Illinois State and outlines the keys to victory for YSU. 

The FCS playoff picture is starting to take shape, and Youngstown State is entering a crucial part of their season. Gino Leone breaks down the updated playoff format, conference championship races, and which teams are most likely to grab at-large bids. Then, he dives deep into YSU’s postseason chances — what the Penguins need to do over the final six games, how realistic fans’ expectations are, and why this season is a crucial step in the program’s rebuild. From Beau Brungard’s leadership to depth in the trenches, Gino explains why 2025 could set the foundation for something special.
🎙️ Penguin Pulse Hotline: Can YSU Still Make the Playoffs?⭐ Don’t forget to rate, review, and share the show — and as always, Go ’Guins!

Youngstown State lost on the road 17-35 at the hands of North Dakota. Recap of the game + look ahead to must win situation at Illinois State.
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Gino offers his honest insight and analysis on the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, talking about what he saw on film and how Youngstown State matches up.
Huge Preview Show coming soon with the potential first guest appearance. Make sure to leave a five star review and continue to show love on social media.
Go 'Guins!