

Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich Paul
The Ringer
Sports media veteran Max Kellerman and super-agent Rich Paul discuss the most pressing topics in sports and culture.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 12, 2026 • 1h 27min
NFL Coaching and QB Legacies. Plus, NBA Team Building and an Eras Debate.
The hosts kick off with a humorous nod to 'Sesame Street,' before dissecting the crucial coaching differences in the 49ers' victory over the Eagles. They delve into the Bears-Packers game, giving credit to strategic masterminds and the impact of charismatic QBs like Caleb Williams. There's a thought-provoking discussion on how playoff success reshapes QB legacies, along with a look at Anthony Davis's injury and its ripple effects on trade strategies. The duo also explores the evolving definition of a modern NBA big three, wrapping up with reflections on player dynamics and legacy talk.

11 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 1h 14min
NFL Wild-Card Weekend, CFP Reaction, and ‘“Nothing Makes Me Nervous”
The hosts dive into their favorite ’90s music, sparking playful debates about artists. They analyze a thrilling college football game between Miami and Ole Miss, while also discussing top NFL draft prospects. The conversation shifts to the surprising Trae Young trade and its implications for players like Anthony Davis. Finally, they preview a super wild-card weekend, sharing predictions on key matchups like Rams vs. Panthers and the historic Packers vs. Bears rivalry. Expect banter, insights, and a thrill for sports fans!

8 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 1h 26min
What It Takes to Make a Trade
Max and Rich dive into the shocking firing of John Harbaugh, analyzing which teams might benefit from his coaching prowess. They break down Trae Young's trade situation using a whiteboard, discussing mental state management for players during trades. The duo critiques LeBron's latest performance and his game-changing insights in the locker room while exploring the evolving dynamics of team constructions. Lastly, they share their exciting predictions for the upcoming college football clash between Miami and Ole Miss.

Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 31min
Thriller in Pittsburgh, Coaching Decisions, and Around the NBA
The podcast kicks off with a thrilling recap of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry, highlighting playoff stakes and late-game drama. Rich shares an intriguing chat with LeBron at the Lakers game, discussing offensive strategies and team dynamics. They dive into coaching changes, particularly in Cleveland, and weigh the pros of investing in assistant coaches. Max vents about the Giants' struggles while exploring playoff narratives for standout QBs. Finally, Rich teases a discussion on Michael Jordan’s unparalleled branding success, all while the whiteboard makes a triumphant return!

17 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 30min
CFP Review, NFL Preview, and a Sports Business Master Class
Rich Paul opens up about his emotional reaction to Ohio State's CFP exit. The duo analyzes Miami's impressive performance and discusses potential NFL prospects emerging from the playoffs. They debate changing college eligibility rules and reflect on recent playoff upsets. Exciting NFL matchups are previewed, with a focus on key coaching decisions and rivalries. Rich shares insights on building sports brands, including endorsements and global marketing strategies. Lastly, they consider how athletes can create lasting cultural connections.

17 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Nuggets’ Future Without Jokic, Loving the Game, and a LeBron–Jimmy Butler Trade?
The discussion kicks off with Nikola Jokic's injury and its implications for the Nuggets, raising questions about player roles. They delve into athletes like Cam Reddish and Ben Simmons, exploring why some fail to reach their potential. The hosts debate the motivations behind playing at home, weighing the pressures against personal desires. A spicy trade idea surfaces, proposing LeBron James for Jimmy Butler—and the fit implications are intriguing. Plus, they share fun New Year’s resolution ideas, blending humor and self-improvement.

24 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 1h 6min
Giannis’s Windmill, Holiday Football, and the Spurs’ Dominance Over OKC
The hosts delve into the wild game between the Bears and 49ers, and make bold Super Bowl predictions. They discuss Justin Herbert's leadership style versus Josh Allen's, highlighting the importance of overcoming messy situations to build championship habits. A late-game windmill dunk by Giannis stirs up conversations about his trade potential, while the Spurs' consistent dominance over OKC raises questions about playoff implications. Insights into team culture versus star power add depth to the discussion.

9 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 1h 20min
NBA Debates! Plus Christmas Games, and Gifts.
Dive into a lively debate on Kobe Bryant's legacy, exploring why opinions differ on his ranking among basketball greats. Discover intriguing projections for the 2028 U.S. Olympic team and how player brands influence selections. The hosts share festive holiday shopping tales, mixing laughter with thoughtful insights on meteorological predictions. Plus, catch a preview of the Christmas Day sports lineup and the ongoing discussion about the impact of tanking in the league.

17 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 59min
Wide-Open AFC, Holiday Thoughts, and a Surprise Phone Call
The hosts dive into the unpredictable AFC and highlight Trevor Lawrence's resurgence in Jacksonville. They discuss how the Knicks' players are sharing bonus winnings with staff, linking generosity to team chemistry. A surprise call from Fred VanVleet sheds light on the Rockets' challenges and playoff aspirations. They also reflect on Jake Paul's upset over Anthony Joshua and explore LeBron's thoughts on prioritizing family over Christmas games, wrapping up with advice on balancing sports and festivities during the holidays.

7 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 1h 3min
Darnold Flips the Script, Melo vs. LeBron, and Paul vs. Joshua
The hosts dive into Sam Darnold's pivotal performance with Seattle, sparking debates about quarterbacks and playoff threats. They analyze the dynamics of the AFC and spotlight Bo Nix as a potential game-changer for the Broncos. A fascinating discussion ensues over the supposed rivalry between LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, highlighting how draft circumstances shaped their careers. Finally, they preview the showdown between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua, examining the stakes for both fighters as the sports weekend heats up.


