

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 14, 2022 • 1h 36min
A Vikes-Bills Body-Switch, Miami’s Rise, Betting Bloodbath Theories and Week 11 Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert and regular contributor, joins the discussion to unpack the Colts' surprising win under Jeff Saturday and the thrilling Bills-Vikings game. They dive into whether Josh Allen has any issues and spotlights star receivers Justin Jefferson and Tyreek Hill's contrasting skills. The conversation shifts to betting insights for Week 11, contemplating team dynamics and injury effects. They round out the talk with humorous reflections from their personal lives, including updates on their family antics.

Nov 11, 2022 • 1h 55min
Best Lakers-Free, Nets-Free NBA Story Lines With Chris Vernon and Joe House, Plus Million-Dollar Picks With Benjamin Solak
Joe House, a Ringer contributor and gambling expert, joins Chris Vernon, an NBA commentator, and Benjamin Solak, an NFL analyst, for an engaging chat about under-the-radar NBA teams. They spotlight the Memphis Grizzlies' backcourt brilliance and the surprising performance of the Cavaliers and Jazz. The discussion shifts to the NFL, analyzing matchups like Rams-Cardinals and Browns-Dolphins, emphasizing player performances and betting insights. With humor and sharp analysis, they navigate the exciting landscape of sports.

Nov 9, 2022 • 2h 29min
Talking Movies With Wesley Morris, Sean Fennessey, and Cameron Crowe (first appearance!)
Wesley Morris, a film critic and cultural commentator, joins writer Sean Fennessey and legendary filmmaker Cameron Crowe for an engaging conversation. They examine the changing landscape of Hollywood, diving into the decline of traditional movie stars and the effects of streaming services. Crowe offers nostalgic insights into his films like 'Almost Famous' and discusses his journey as a music writer. The trio also reflects on the challenges of authentic storytelling in today’s cinematic world and the evolution of music's influence on film.

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.