

The Bill Simmons Podcast
The Ringer
HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
Episodes
Mentioned books

85 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 48min
The Juggernaut Packers, Realistic Clippers Punishments, and Week 2 NFL Picks With Joe House, Jason Concepcion, and Chris Ryan
Joe House, a savvy sports commentator from The Ringer, joins forces with pop culture aficionado Jason Concepcion and sports analyst Chris Ryan. They dive into the intense NFL matchup between the Commanders and Packers, dissecting key injuries and player performances. The trio also tackles the implications of the Clippers' scandal, discussing realistic punishments for the team. With thrilling predictions for Week 2 of the NFL, they explore betting strategies amidst the excitement of the season, offering a blend of sports analysis and entertainment.

132 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 2h 4min
Arch Manning, NFL Announcers, a New Deal for 'PTI', the Ballmer Scandal, and a Crawford-Canelo Megafight With Van Lathan Jr., Bryan Curtis, and Chris Mannix
Van Lathan Jr., a media personality known for his sharp cultural insights, joins media reporter Bryan Curtis and boxing analyst Chris Mannix for a lively conversation. They dive into the rise of college football star Arch Manning and the pressures of young athletes. The discussion shifts to the Steve Ballmer scandal in the NBA, exploring its implications. Finally, they analyze the upcoming Crawford-Canelo megafight, debating styles, strategies, and legacies in boxing while reflecting on the evolving landscape of sports media.

167 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 32min
A Classic Josh-Vs.-Lamar Battle, the Week 1 Panic Meter, Guess the Lines and Parent Corner With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal joins the conversation, bringing his signature humor and insights from his extensive NFL experience. They reflect on Week 1 chaos, dissecting standout teams and surprising performances while strategizing for Week 2 bets. Sal shares hilarious parenting stories about his daughter's clever 'clothing thefts' that resonate with any parent. The banter continues as they delve into thrilling matchups, with lively debates on MVP odds and the unpredictable nature of football outcomes, delivering laughs alongside expert analysis.

88 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 39min
Eagles Spit Takes, Week 1 NFL Picks, and a Possible Clippers Scandal With Joe House
Joe House, a betting expert and Ringer staffer, joins to dissect the thrilling Eagles-Cowboys game, pointing out standout players and pivotal moments. They also share their Week 1 NFL picks, optimizing betting strategies while humorously debating team performances. The conversation takes a turn as they explore a potential scandal involving the Clippers, raising eyebrows about financial misconduct in the NBA. Expect laughs, insights, and plenty of betting tips as they navigate the exhilarating landscape of sports!

204 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 15min
Most Fun NFL Story Lines With Peter Schrager
Peter Schrager, NFL analyst for ESPN and former host of Good Morning Football, dives into the most compelling narratives of the upcoming NFL season. He highlights key quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelsey, discussing the pressure they face. The analysis extends to underdog teams like the Miami Dolphins, offering a mix of skepticism and optimism. The conversation also touches on coaching shifts affecting team dynamics and personal anecdotes from Schrager's transition to ESPN, making for an engaging and insightful listen.

117 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 1h 37min
Charles Barkley on Skinny Luka, the Eagles, LeBron, Jokic, Josh Allen, and His Uneasy ESPN Partnership
Charles Barkley, former NBA star and vibrant analyst, shares his bold NFL predictions and discusses the Eagles' team dynamics. He dives into the ongoing debate over the best NBA players, comparing current stars with legends. Barkley also addresses his unique partnership with ESPN and the pressures of sports broadcasting. With his characteristic insight, he reflects on how free agency impacts player performance and the evolving landscape of competitive spirit in basketball.

287 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 1h 50min
Guess the Lines Week 1, Micah Parsons Trade Damage, and an NFL Futures Draft With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a comedic commentator known for his sharp sports insights, joins to discuss the recent Micah Parsons trade and its potential fallout for the Cowboys. They dive into the excitement of NFL Week 1, making predictions on key matchups like Eagles vs. Cowboys, and engaging in a fun 'Guess the Lines' segment. The duo also participates in an NFL futures draft, analyzing rookie contenders and sharing humorous personal anecdotes, including mishaps from a chaotic Labor Day weekend.

185 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 20min
The Annual NFC Over/Unders With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a witty writer, comedian, and podcaster, joins to break down the NFC's teams as the new NFL season approaches. They kick things off with a humorous take on sports betting, prepping listeners for thrilling predictions. The duo dives into the Philadelphia Eagles' promising season, debates the NFC North's challenges, and evaluates various teams' prospects and strategies. Expect insights on key players, coaching dynamics, and some lighthearted banter to accompany their betting picks!

151 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 28min
The Annual AFC Over/Unders With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a witty writer and comedian known for his NFL insights, joins the discussion about the upcoming season's AFC over/unders. They delve into the Buffalo Bills' hopes with Josh Allen, weigh the unpredictable nature of team performances, and share nostalgic moments about past football seasons. Predictions also flow about the Ravens, Jets, and Dolphins, while they explore strengths and strategies for each division. The duo's banter makes betting implications and team analysis both entertaining and enlightening!

199 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 2h
2025 NFL Teams as Classic Action Movies, With Kyle Brandt and Joe House
Kyle Brandt, known for his energetic takes on Good Morning Football, and Joe House, a staple at The Ringer, join Bill Simmons for a thrilling discussion that reimagines NFL teams as classic action movies. They dive into humorous comparisons, aligning teams with iconic films and examining the emotional ties of fandom. Expect witty insights on the Broncos' surprise potential, the Texans' defensive strength, and cheeky predictions for the playoff landscape—making for a fun blend of sports analysis and cinematic nostalgia.