The Bill Simmons Podcast Niners Magic, Schlitt Happens, a Red Sox Postmortem, the Seahawks Ceiling, and Week 5 NFL Picks With Kevin Hench and Joe House
69 snips
Oct 3, 2025 
Kevin Hench, a sharp sports commentator and Red Sox analyst, joins to dissect the team's playoff exit, focusing on key defensive errors and managerial decisions. Joe House, a Ringer writer and NFL expert, shares insights on Week 5 betting strategies and MVP odds. They debate the futures of various NFL teams while highlighting intriguing matchups and potential upsets. Plus, early thoughts on NBA betting futures spark discussion about the Celtics and emerging players like Victor Wembanyama.
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Series Lost By Small Plays
- Kevin Hench recounts the Red Sox losing plays in the Yankees series that felt decisive, like Duran's dropped pop fly and Cedan's failed bunt.
- He describes how small execution errors in October turned likely wins into elimination moments for Boston.
Injuries Made The Roster Fragile
- Bill and Hench note the Red Sox roster was decimated by injuries and fragile moves, explaining playoff underperformance.
- They argue the team's lack of depth forced rookies into high-leverage playoff roles they couldn't sustain.
Spend On Reliable Starters
- Hench and Bill suggest the Red Sox should prioritize reliable starting pitching additions like Nick Pivetta or Quinn Priester.
- They recommend spending on consistent innings rather than continuing risky 'roll the dice' starter signings.