

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

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.

9 snips
Nov 8, 2023 • 1h 49min
An NBA Power Poll, Plus Malcolm Gladwell Plays ‘Sports Czar’
Malcolm Gladwell, renowned author and journalist, joins to share his insights on reshaping major sports. He delves into innovative tweaks for the NBA, including thoughts on combating tanking and enhancing the fan experience. Discussions also touch on reinstating home field advantage in the NFL and the complexities of MLB season structure. Gladwell highlights the influence of technology in sports, raising ethical questions about performance enhancement. This engaging conversation is packed with fresh perspectives and thought-provoking ideas!

Nov 6, 2023 • 1h 31min
The Dallas/Dak Blues, Dobbs Follows, Buffalo in Trouble, Stroud’s Wild Season, and Week 10 Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular on the show and a master of sports betting, joins to break down the recent NFL action. They discuss the Eagles' thrilling win against the Cowboys and celebrate Josh Dobbs' impressive debut with the Vikings, turning around their fortunes. The duo analyzes C.J. Stroud's dazzling performance, reviews upcoming Week 10 matchups, and shares betting insights. Expect humor, anecdotes, and passionate tangents on teams like the struggling Bills and the surprising highs of the season!

Nov 3, 2023 • 1h 60min
NBA “Too Soon?” With Joe House and Kyle Mann, Plus the Struggling Grizzlies and Week 9 NFL Picks With Chris Vernon
Joe House and J. Kyle Mann join Bill Simmons to discuss NBA teams and players. They analyze the struggles of Julius Randle and potential trade options. They also explore the performance of rookie basketball players and the impact of Anthony Davis on the Lakers. The podcast concludes with discussions on the struggling Memphis Grizzlies, NFL picks, and the lack of respect for Josh McDaniel.

5 snips
Nov 1, 2023 • 1h 42min
The Clippers Are Dumb, Plus the NFL Trade Deadline, Sleeper Teams, and 'The Godfather' With Michael Lombardi
Michael Lombardi, a seasoned football analyst and former NFL executive, joins the conversation to dissect the recent James Harden trade to the Clippers. He highlights the impulsive decisions that may haunt the team and critiques their strategy amidst past playoff failures. The discussion shifts to NFL trade dynamics, examining team performances and quarterback challenges. Lombardi also reminisces about classic mob films, critiquing 'The Godfather Part III' while exploring how these narratives resonate with sports themes of loyalty and betrayal.

Oct 30, 2023 • 1h 43min
RIP Matthew Perry, Plus the Return of Cincy, a Bad Week 8 QB Draft, Wemby Live, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, known for his keen sports analysis and betting insights, joins the conversation to draft the worst NFL quarterbacks after a dismal Week 8. They dive into the ongoing drama of the league, pondering tough questions about players like Will Levis and the Bengals' resurgence. Sal shares his betting picks for Week 9, adding a layer of excitement. The discussion blends humor and critical analysis, and they even touch on parenting challenges in an entertaining Parent Corner segment.

Oct 27, 2023 • 1h 58min
A 72-Hour NBA Binge With Rob Mahoney, Searching for an NFL Alpha Dog With Peter Schrager, Plus Million-Dollar Picks
Bill Simmons is joined by Rob Mahoney to discuss the first three days of the NBA season, including Suns-Lakers, 76ers-Bucks, and Knicks-Celtics. Then, Bill is joined by Peter Schrager to identify which teams can make a postseason run, discussing the Texans' ceiling, a turbulent Browns season, and more. Finally, Bill makes his Million-Dollar Picks for NFL Week 8.

Oct 25, 2023 • 1h 36min
Joker and Booker Dominate Opening Night, Plus Doc Rivers Breaks Down the NBA Season
Doc Rivers, a seasoned NBA coach known for his thoughtful insights, dives deep into the NBA's opening night and the evolving dynamics of the league. He reflects on his unique offseason away from coaching, analyzes the Celtics' busy moves, and shares thoughts on the potential of the young Thunder and rising star Victor Wembanyama. Rivers also discusses LeBron James's longevity and the challenges teams face, offering a look at the nuances of player chemistry and the strategic mindset needed to excel in the competitive landscape.

Oct 23, 2023 • 1h 41min
The Philly Decade, Lamar On Fire, the Best Game Curse, NBA Awards, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert and regular contributor, joins the discussion touching on the Eagles' triumph over the Dolphins and the Patriots' stunning win against the Bills. He dives into key NFL matchups, revealing surprising team performances and betting insights. The duo also navigates through the complexities of betting lines for Week 8, while humorously examining the influence of celebrity culture on the NFL, notably Taylor Swift's rumored romance. They wrap up with relatable tales of parenthood and nostalgic memories involving family pets.


