

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 7, 2022 • 1h 41min
A Drunk NFL Season, Week 10 Lines, and Anthony Davis Trades With Cousin Sal and Kevin O’Connor
Cousin Sal brings his humor and sports betting savvy to the discussion, dissecting thrilling NFL matchups including the Chiefs' overtime win and the surprise Jets victory. He and Bill also dive into the prospects of playoff teams, sharing witty insights. Meanwhile, Kevin O’Connor analyzes Anthony Davis's trade potential, exploring what teams might make a move and the implications for the Lakers. The banter is lively as they speculate on future trades, making for a captivating mix of sports analysis and entertaining commentary.

Nov 4, 2022 • 2h 22min
A Cavs Revival, Far-Fetched NFL Predictions, Plus Kevin Smith’s BS Pod Debut | With Rob Mahoney and Peter Schrager
Rob Mahoney, a savvy NBA analyst at The Ringer, dives into the Cleveland Cavaliers' exciting postseason prospects, spotlighting Donovan Mitchell's key role. Peter Schrager, NFL reporter for Fox Sports, shares outrageous predictions for the NFL season and discusses the thrilling dynamics of the Eagles while addressing pivotal quarterback performances. Filmmaker Kevin Smith reflects on his journey from 'Clerks' to 'Clerks III', revealing insights about storytelling, audience engagement, and the impact of digital culture on indie films.

Nov 2, 2022 • 1h 51min
The Dysfunctionally Dysfunctional Nets With Raja Bell, Plus a Big Dolphins Move and Philly’s Ceiling With Sheil Kapadia and Benjamin Solak
Raja Bell, a former NBA player known for his candid basketball insights, dives into the chaos surrounding the Brooklyn Nets and the implications of Steve Nash's firing. He discusses coaching challenges and the impact of star players on team culture. Later, NFL experts Sheil Kapadia and Benjamin Solak evaluate the flurry of trades at the deadline, including Bradley Chubb to the Dolphins and Roquan Smith to the Ravens. They weigh the playoff prospects for teams like the Dolphins and the evolving landscape of the league.

Oct 31, 2022 • 1h 32min
King Geno, Jets Distress, Regret MVPs, Guess the Playoff Seeds and Week 9 Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports humorist and analyst, joins the conversation to dive deep into the current NFL landscape. They break down Christian McCaffrey's standout performance and Geno Smith's unexpected success. The discussion turns to the Jets' ongoing quarterback woes and the implications for their future. They also explore playoff predictions while humorously guessing Week 8 betting lines. With entertaining anecdotes and sharp insights, the banter keeps sports fans engaged and entertained throughout.

6 snips
Oct 28, 2022 • 2h 8min
NBA Panic Watch With Rob Mahoney, Plus the Scrambling QB Era and Million-Dollar Picks With Benjamin Solak and Peter Schrager
Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer, shares insights on NBA 'panic teams' and the recent Warriors-Heat matchup. NFL analyst Peter Schrager discusses the Chiefs' acquisition of Kadarius Toney, updated Super Bowl odds, and teams in trouble. Benjamin Solak dives into the rise of scrambling QBs, the questionable coaching in the league, and the underuse of stars like Kyle Pitts. The trio also examines betting strategies, key matchups, and the evolving landscape of both leagues in an entertaining and insightful conversation.

Oct 25, 2022 • 1h 32min
Charles Barkley on Scapegoating Russell Westbrook, Superstars vs. Bus Riders, Getting Traded, and a Crazy First NBA Week
Charles Barkley, a legendary NBA player and vibrant analyst, shares his unique insights on the current basketball landscape. He discusses the pressure Kevin Durant faces in leadership with the Nets and analyzes the struggles of the Lakers and Sixers. Barkley doesn't hold back on the culture of scapegoating players like Russell Westbrook and critiques the roles of superstars versus role players. With captivating stories from his career, he offers a humorous yet honest take on the ever-evolving dynamics of the NBA and potential rule changes.

Oct 24, 2022 • 1h 36min
Green Bay is Done, the Brady Zone, Philly’s Big Month, '72 Dolphins Fatigue, and Week 8 Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular guest known for his sharp sports betting insights and humor, joins the discussion on the Green Bay Packers' dismal performance and Tom Brady's farewell season. They dive into the unpredictable nature of the NFL, analyzing the surprising success of New York teams and the challenges facing quarterbacks and coaches. Sal shares his betting wisdom for upcoming games, while also reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster of football season and parenting. It's a blend of sports analysis and personal anecdotes that keeps listeners engaged.

Oct 21, 2022 • 1h 58min
LeBron’s NBA Hell, PaoloMania, McCaffrey to SF, NFL Rookie Surprises and Week 7 Picks With Ben Solak and Peter Schrager
Benjamin Solak, an NFL Analyst for The Ringer, shares his insights on rookie quarterbacks and upcoming matchups. He and Peter Schrager, an NFL Analyst for NFL Network, discuss the impact of Christian McCaffrey's trade to the 49ers and the complexities of the NFL ownership dynamics following a recent meeting. They touch on the ambiguous state of the NFC West and evaluate the Patriots' quarterback situation. Expect lively debates about key performances and bold predictions for Week 7!

Oct 19, 2022 • 1h 33min
NBA Opening Night Overreactions With Kevin O’Connor, Plus Ryan Fitzpatrick on QB Intangibles and Tom Brady’s Bizarre Season
Kevin O’Connor, a savvy NBA analyst from The Ringer, dissects overreactions to the thrilling Celtics-76ers and Lakers-Warriors matchups on NBA Opening Night. He highlights the Celtics' newfound toughness while questioning the 76ers' defensive woes. Ryan Fitzpatrick, former NFL quarterback and current analyst, shares insights on the striking decline in NFL scoring and Tom Brady’s unexpected struggles this season. The conversation spills into the dynamics of quarterback play and the challenges faced by teams, making for an engaging sports discussion.

Oct 17, 2022 • 1h 31min
Brady’s Grisly Year, Mediocre QBpalooza, the Frisky Pats, and MLB Playoff Fixes With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a beloved voice in sports commentary, joins to unpack the thrilling NFL season. They dive into the Eagles' impressive 6-0 start and the challenges of pinpointing the NFC's second-best team. The duo also critiques struggling quarterbacks like Brady and Rodgers, exploring the shifting landscape of the NFL. Adding to the fun, they discuss the ongoing MLB playoffs and brainstorm potential fixes for postseason formats. Sal spices things up with humorous anecdotes about parenting and dietary quirks, making for an entertaining listen!