

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

5 snips
Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 30min
Tortured Jets Fans, NFL Fixes, and Curb Your Enthusiasm’s 25-Year Run With Larry David
Larry David, the hilarious creator of 'Curb Your Enthusiasm,' brings his sharp wit to the discussion with Bill Simmons. They dive into the emotional rollercoaster of being a Jets fan and share funny anecdotes about team history. The conversation shifts to the nostalgia of baseball and critiques of classic films. David also reflects on his comedy roots, the complexities of writing for long-running shows, and even suggests radical changes to football's scoring system. Expect laughter and insightful takes on sports and entertainment!

6 snips
Jan 29, 2024 • 1h 23min
A Lion-Sized Collapse, Mahomes Rises Again, Guess the Super Bowl Line, and NBA Award Long Shots With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports betting expert known for his sharp humor, joins the discussion about NFL playoff heartbreaks, highlighting the Ravens' collapse against the Chiefs and the Lions' grim fate. They dive into Super Bowl predictions and MVP speculations, cheekily exploring betting odds and potential highlights. The conversation meanders into the impacts of celebrity fans like Taylor Swift while keeping it light with funny anecdotes. Sal brings humor to NBA betting insights as they analyze this season's standout players and expectations.

Jan 26, 2024 • 1h 57min
The Badass Knicks, Purdy on Trial, Lamar vs. Mahomes and Million Dollar Picks With Rob Mahoney and Peter Schrager
Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer, dives into the sizzling NBA season, highlighting the Knicks' rising fortunes and discussing trade rumors that could shake things up. Meanwhile, Peter Schrager from the NFL Network offers keen insights on the coaching carousel and upcoming playoff matchups like Chiefs vs. Ravens. Expect thrilling analysis on star players, the emotional bond fans share with their teams, and some savvy betting strategies for the exhilarating championship rounds ahead!

5 snips
Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 58min
Milwaukee Blows It Up, and Miami’s Big Move With Kevin O’Connor and Joe House, Plus, a Celtics/Patriots Report With Bill’s Dad
Sports analysts Kevin O'Connor and Joe House join Bill Simmons to discuss the Bucks firing their coach mid-season and the Heat's trade for Terry Rozier. They also speculate on possible trade deadline moves for various teams. Bill's Dad gives his Boston sports report on the Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox. The episode also includes ad segments and repetitive reminders to subscribe to the podcast.

Jan 22, 2024 • 1h 26min
Wide Right (Again), Alpha Mahomes, the Lucky 49ers, Playoff Diarrhea, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
In this engaging discussion, Cousin Sal, a savvy sports analyst known for his betting insights, joins to dissect the thrilling matchup between the Bills and Chiefs, highlighting key plays and fumbles. They delve into the playoff mentality of Patrick Mahomes versus Tom Brady and consider the potential of teams like the Lions and 49ers. Humorously blending betting strategies with personal anecdotes, they also explore the pressures of coaching decisions and the emotional rollercoaster of NFL fandom, closing with light-hearted tales from parenthood and youth sports.

Jan 18, 2024 • 1h 49min
An NBA Midseason Power Poll, Allen Vs. Mahomes, and Divisional-Round Million-Dollar Picks With Peter Schrager
Peter Schrager, an engaging NFL Network and Fox Sports analyst, joins to dissect the exhilarating world of midseason NBA and NFL playoffs. The duo dives into the NBA Power Poll, unraveling team dynamics and trade implications for struggling franchises like Detroit and Memphis. Shifting to the NFL, they analyze the intense rivalry between quarterbacks Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes, exploring the pressures of playoff performance. Plus, they share strategic betting insights for the divisional-round games that could lead to million-dollar picks!

Jan 16, 2024 • 1h 6min
The Philly Not-Special, Baker’s Redemption, Bills-Chiefs, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a sports commentator and regular guest, joins for an engaging discussion on NFL playoff dynamics after the Buccaneers stunned the Eagles. They delve into coaching rumors surrounding big names like Bill Belichick and the implications for teams like the Bills and Chiefs. The conversation heats up as they guess betting lines for crucial matchups while sharing hilarious personal anecdotes about family sports loyalties. They wrap up with amusing tales from parenting, reflecting on the joys and challenges of raising kids amidst a love for sports.

Jan 15, 2024 • 53min
Dallas Gets Crushed, Miami’s Tua Problem, Detroit’s Big Night, and Rookie QB Magic With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports commentator, joins for an action-packed discussion. They analyze the Cowboys' frustrating loss to the Packers and what it means for Mike McCarthy's future. The thrilling Rams vs. Lions game receives special attention, showcasing a standout performance. Tua's struggles with the Dolphins spark debate on his future and the team's direction. Amidst humor and betting insights, they tackle the challenges of rookie quarterbacks and reflect on the unpredictability of the NFL playoffs.

Jan 12, 2024 • 1h 12min
Part 2: An NBA All-Star Snapshot, Washington’s Pain, Round 1 Picks, and a Belichick Story With Joe House
Joe House, a savvy sports analyst and contributor to The Ringer, joins for an engaging discussion. They dissect the NBA’s disappointing teams, particularly the Wizards, while humorously debating favorite candy bars. House and Simmons also dive into NFL Wild Card predictions, showcasing the importance of strategic plays. The conversation wraps with a nostalgic look at Bill Belichick's legendary coaching career, emphasizing key moments that defined his legacy with the Patriots. Expect a mix of insightful analysis and lighthearted banter!

Jan 11, 2024 • 2h 20min
Part 1: Belichick’s Gone, NFL Coach Roulette, and a Round One Mega-Preview With Michael Lombardi and Peter Schrager
Michael Lombardi, a former NFL executive, shares insights on Bill Belichick's long tenure with the Patriots and the challenges ahead for his next team. Peter Schrager, an NFL reporter, joins to preview the wild-card weekend while discussing key coaching dynamics. They delve into the coaching carousel and the importance of adaptability in strategies. The duo also explores the impact of loyalty and trust in leadership, using engaging comparisons to famous bands and crucial decisions in NFL history.