Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast: Riverhounds Captain Danny Griffin on Hamtramck showdown, position shifts and Patriots banter

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC captain Danny Griffin joins John Krysinsky to break down the high-stakes Rust Belt Derby in Hamtramck, shifting roles in the midfield, throwing out the first pitch at PNC Park, and locker room banter ahead of Steelers vs. Patriots.

All eyes in the USL Championship’s Eastern Conference turn to Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck, Michigan, this Saturday.

With the regular-season finish line in sight, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC head into hostile territory for a high-stakes edition of the Rust Belt Derby against Detroit City FC.

On the latest edition of the Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, Hounds captain Danny Griffin joins John Krysinsky to discuss the team’s stretch run, key tactical shifts in the midfield, and what it takes to get three points in one of the toughest environments in lower-league soccer.

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Episode Highlights & Key Discussion Points

• The High-Stakes Trip to Hamtramck: Danny previews the upcoming battle at Keyworth Stadium against Detroit City FC, detailing the tight Eastern Conference standings and why head-to-head matches against close rivals carry six-point significance.

• Griffin’s Evolving Tactical Role: Exploring his recent shifts from central midfield anchor to wide right, balancing defensive responsibility with freedom in the attacking front five.

• Midfield Depth & Momentum: How the return of key contributors, central anchoring from Jackson Wälti, and scoring threats like Sam Bassett and Trevor Amann give the Hounds versatility heading toward the postseason.

• Off the Pitch Banter: Danny shares stories about throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at PNC Park alongside teammate Robbie Mertz, plus navigating a friendly household and locker room rivalry ahead of the Steelers-Patriots game.

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John Krysinsky

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).