

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

Dec 1, 2023 • 1h 59min
An NBA Power Poll, Carolina’s Rock-Bottom, Eagles-Niners, and Million-Dollar Picks With Steven Ruiz and Sheil Kapadia
Bill Simmons discusses NBA Power poll rankings, Carolina Panthers' struggling situation, Steven Ruiz's QB rankings, Philadelphia Eagles' season, and Week 13 NFL games with guests Sheil Kapadia and Steven Ruiz. The topics also include potential NBA trades, the role of David Tepper as the owner of the Panthers, and predictions for Eagles-Niners game.

19 snips
Nov 29, 2023 • 2h 1min
NBA Tournament Chaos and Top-10 Player Arguments with Justin Termine, plus Michael Rubin on Changing the Collectibles Industry
Guests Justin Termine and Michael Rubin join Bill Simmons in a podcast discussing the wild final night of the In-Season Tournament, the impact of AI on merchandise, modernizing sports cards, Tatum vs Booker debate, and rankings of top 10 NBA players

4 snips
Nov 27, 2023 • 1h 35min
The Milton Berle Eagles, Baltimore’s Maddening Season, the Surging Broncos, and the Pathetic Patriots With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports commentator known for his humor, joins the discussion on the NFL's latest drama. They dive into the Chargers' heartbreaking loss to the Ravens and the Patriots' rough season, eyeing a potential high draft pick. The duo highlights Denver's surprising midseason resurgence and debates the chaotic playoff landscape. They also touch on betting strategies while sharing amusing anecdotes about Thanksgiving and parenting struggles. It's a fun blend of football insights and entertaining personal stories!

Nov 22, 2023 • 1h 56min
Part 2: In-Season Tournament Kudos, GSW in Trouble, NFL MVP Weirdness, and Million-Dollar Thanksgiving Picks With Rob Mahoney, Steven Ruiz, and Danny Kelly
Rob Mahoney, an NBA analyst for The Ringer, joins with NFL experts Steven Ruiz and Danny Kelly to dive deep into the NBA's inaugural in-season tournament and its electrifying competitive spirit. They dissect aging superstars like LeBron and Curry, who are navigating the pressures of the MVP race. The trio also explores the NFL's MVP conundrum, highlighting overlooked contenders while prepping for Thanksgiving's betting excitement. From player performance to strategic insights, their lively banter makes sports analytics both fun and thought-provoking!

7 snips
Nov 21, 2023 • 2h 4min
Part 1: Jaylen Brown’s Crucial Season, an OpenAI Rebellion, and KC’s WR Shortage With Kevin O’Connor, Derek Thompson, and Austin Gayle
Kevin O'Connor, a writer specializing in the Boston Celtics, shares insights on Jaylen Brown's evolving role and the Celtics' performance challenges. Derek Thompson discusses the recent upheaval at OpenAI, including the firing of CEO Sam Altman, highlighting the impacts on the tech landscape. Austin Gayle dives into NFL stats, analyzing rookie C.J. Stroud and the struggles of Zach Wilson, providing a unique perspective on coaching decisions and player performance as the season unfolds.

Nov 20, 2023 • 1h 28min
The Sleeper Browns, Goff’s Evil Twin, Rowboat Ron, and the Bills Are(n’t) Back With Cousin Sal
Bill Simmons welcomes Cousin Sal, a sports commentator known for his sharp betting insights. They dive into thrilling NFL matchups like Vikings vs. Broncos and a surprising Browns win over the Steelers. Sal breaks down the dramatic Bears vs. Lions game and speculates on the upcoming Thanksgiving matchups. They also tackle the unpredictable nature of the league, including the Rams vs. Seahawks showdown. Closing out with Parent Corner, Sal shares humorous tales from navigating his kids' sports chaos.

Nov 17, 2023 • 2h 2min
Burrow’s Uh-Oh, Best NBA Rookies, Steelers-Browns, and Million-Dollar Picks With Mallory Rubin, Danny Kelly, and J. Kyle Mann
Bill Simmons is joined by Mallory Rubin to react to the Bengals' loss to the Ravens, Joe Burrow's injury, and AFC playoff speculation. Then, Bill talks with Danny Kelly about NFL games and makes his Million-Dollar Picks for Week 11. Finally, J. Kyle Mann joins to discuss NBA Rookie Rankings and the top 15 rookies this season.

18 snips
Nov 14, 2023 • 2h 3min
Early NBA Surprises With Doc Rivers, Plus Netflix’s Dominating 2023 With Matthew Belloni
Doc Rivers, a seasoned NBA coach, shares his insights on the competitive landscape of the league, discussing the new in-season tournament and the challenges facing teams like the Clippers. He highlights the growth of young stars and the importance of team chemistry. Matthew Belloni, a media analyst, delves into Netflix's remarkable ascent in 2023, exploring its strategies in the streaming wars and future prospects in live sports. Both guests provide fascinating perspectives on their respective fields, making for a dynamic conversation.

Nov 13, 2023 • 1h 34min
Cleveland Shocks Lamar, Dobbsanity Strikes Again, New York Bad QB History, and Belichick’s Bleak Season With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert and comedic favorite, joins the conversation to dissect the wild NFL action. They dive into unexpected victories, like the Browns stunning the Ravens and the Texans topping the Bengals. Sal shares laughs over the chaotic quarterback performances, particularly the troubled New York QB history. They also analyze the dismal season for the Patriots and Bill Belichick. Expect insights on betting odds and a light-hearted Parent Corner to wrap it all up!

7 snips
Nov 10, 2023 • 2h 1min
The NBA’s Big Shift, Best NFL Future Bets and Mega-Million-Dollar Picks With Howard Beck, Michael Pina, Benjamin Solak, and Raheem Palmer
Howard Beck and Michael Pina dive into the NBA's evolving landscape, discussing the decline of super teams and the rise of strategic team dynamics, particularly spotlighting the Timberwolves. Benjamin Solak offers insights on the fading Belichick era and favorite NFL bets, while Raheem Palmer tackles NFL Week 10 matchups, sharing hot betting tips. The conversation spans intriguing player performances, with highlights on rising stars like Chet Holmgren and strategies for betting in both leagues, blending expert analysis with engaging banter.