

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

Sep 20, 2024 • 2h 2min
A Resurgent Rodgers, Million-Dollar Picks, Hottest Takes, and Fantasy Surprises With Joe House, Steven Ruiz, and Craig Horlbeck
Joe House, a sports analyst at The Ringer, shares insights on the Jets' impressive win over the Patriots, while also discussing upcoming NFL matchups and betting strategies. Steven Ruiz celebrates his accurate Bryce Young prediction and offers his hottest takes from the previous week. Craig Horlbeck dives into the fantasy football landscape, highlighting key player performances and trade targets, as well as the rising value of kickers. Entertaining banter and strategic insights keep the discussions lively and engaging!

12 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 1h 51min
Biggest 2024-25 NBA Concerns With Zach Lowe
Zach Lowe, a prominent ESPN analyst celebrated for his NBA insights, joins the discussion on looming concerns for the 2024-25 season. They delve into the potential pitfalls facing Giannis and the Bucks, ponder Joel Embiid's health, and evaluate the unpredictable Pelicans. The duo also explores Celtics’ dynamics and the playoff implications for the Lakers and Clippers. With insights on trade dynamics, player injuries, and the overall competitive landscape, the conversation is a must-listen for any basketball fan eager for the season ahead.

Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 45min
Are Baltimore and Cincy Screwed? Plus, Underdog Weekend, the 0-2 Curse, a Bryce Benching, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular contributor known for his sharp sports analysis and betting insights, joins the discussion to unpack the chaotic NFL landscape. They explore the implications of teams starting 0-2 and reflect on surprising upsets, including the 49ers losing to the Vikings. The duo also dives into betting strategies, critiques questionable coaching decisions, and assesses the playoff prospects of struggling teams. Expect laughter and lively debates as they guess the betting lines for the upcoming week!

Sep 13, 2024 • 1h 54min
Tua Again, NFL Week 2 Either/Or, and Million-Dollar Picks With Mike Lombardi and Joe House
In this discussion, Michael Lombardi, a former NFL executive known for his keen player evaluation, shares insights on the Packers' QB situation and the challenges facing the Giants and Jets. Sports analyst Joe House joins in to dive into betting strategies for NFL Week 2. They explore the urgent need for reform in player safety following Tua Tagovailoa's recent head injury. Lombardi and House also analyze potential upsets and provide their favorite picks for the upcoming games, blending expert analysis with engaging banter.

Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 49min
The Jets, 'Rebel Ridge,' a Great 'Sopranos' Doc, and Deion’s Rocky Year Two With Sean Fennessey and Van Lathan
Sean Fennessey, a writer for The Ringer, and Van Lathan, co-host of the Higher Learning podcast, dive into a whirlwind of topics. They dissect the Jets' struggles this season, examine the cultural impact of 'The Sopranos,' and discuss the Netflix film 'Rebel Ridge.' The conversation shifts to Deion Sanders' influence on college football and the dynamics of player movement. Don't miss their insights on the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show and the challenges within sports rivalries.

Sep 9, 2024 • 1h 44min
Detroit Survives, Week 1 Panic Rankings, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular guest known for his sharp sports betting insights and humor, joins the discussion on the Lions' thrilling overtime victory against the Rams. They dive into Tom Brady’s debut as a broadcaster and assess panic rankings for NFL teams like the Falcons and Browns. The duo also analyzes surprising performances, tackles betting lines for Week 2, and shares funny anecdotes about parenting in their lively Parent Corner segment. Get ready for a blend of sports analysis and comedic reflections!

Sep 6, 2024 • 2h 5min
The Chiefs Escape (Again), 2024 NFL Zags, and Million-Dollar Picks Return With Peter Schrager and Joe House
This week features Peter Schrager, an NFL Network and Fox Sports personality, and Joe House, a sports betting expert. They dive into the Chiefs' nail-biting win against the Ravens and discuss the Jets' promising roster with Aaron Rodgers. The conversation veers into unexpected predictions for the season, touching on Tom Brady's media presence and the evolving dynamics within teams. Finally, Joe House shares his Million-Dollar Picks for the upcoming NFL week, highlighting strategies and matchups that could make or break your betting choices.

Sep 4, 2024 • 1h 39min
Charles Barkley on the New NFL Season, NBA Sleepers, Caitlin’s Detractors, and TV Networks Screwing Things Up
In this engaging conversation, Charles Barkley, the outspoken former NBA star and current analyst, shares his excitement for the new NFL season and discusses intriguing player dynamics in the NBA. He delves into the evolving roles of stars like Jalen Brown and Jayson Tatum and highlights potential sleeper teams for the upcoming season. Barkley also reflects on the challenges faced by the WNBA, particularly regarding Caitlin Clark, and shares humorous anecdotes about his career and the uncertain future of his show on sports television.

Sep 2, 2024 • 1h 39min
Guess the Lines (Year 18!) and Favorite NFL Futures With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular with a knack for sports betting and humor, joins for a lively conversation about the NFL. They dive into their favorite futures bets for the upcoming season, offering innovative betting strategies for various teams, including the Panthers and Patriots. Sal discusses rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and his projection, while the duo engages in a nostalgic 'Guess the Lines' game, blending betting odds with light-hearted stories from family life. The mix of analysis and fun creates an entertaining preview of the football season ahead.

Aug 29, 2024 • 1h 28min
The Annual NFC Over/Unders With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert and regular contributor, joins the discussion to dive into the win totals for every NFC team. They analyze the competitive dynamics in the NFC East, particularly the Eagles and Cowboys, while offering insights on over/under bets for high-profile squads like the Dallas Cowboys. Sal and the host also explore trade talks involving the Giants, making bold predictions for the Lions' season, and dissecting the performance expectations for teams in the South and West, all sprinkled with humor and betting strategies.