The Bill Simmons Podcast

This week, Cousin Sal brings his sports analysis and comedic flair to the discussion. He dives into the surprising moments from NFL Week 1, like the Packers’ disappointing loss and Mahomes’ dominant performance with five touchdown passes. The duo also breaks down the upcoming matchups for Week 2, including the intriguing Chiefs vs. Chargers clash. Along the way, they sprinkle in light-hearted banter about their fantasy football leagues and the quirky dynamics of parenting, making for an entertaining listen.

The Ringer's Bill Simmons shares his thoughts on the Bills' win over the Rams (2:24), before he is joined by NFL Network's Peter Schrager to discuss this year's Super Bowl contenders, why the Chiefs are both of their Super Bowl picks, the case for the Packers to win the NFC, and more (12:45), before they kick around a few bets for Million Dollar Picks (36:16). Then, Bill talks with The Ringer's Benjamin Solak about some of his favorite Week 1 matchups to bet, including Buccaneers-Cowboys, Eagles-Lions, Jaguars-Commanders, Patriots-Dolphins, 49ers-Bears, and more (1:04:07). Finally, after much deliberation, Bill reveals the Million Dollar Picks for NFL Week 1 (1:30:38).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Peter Schrager and Benjamin SolakProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Clark, a contributor to The Ringer and host of 'Slow Newsday,' dives into NFL playoff sleeper teams, evaluating underdog potential. Raheem Palmer brings his betting expertise to discuss odds and Week 1 favorites, illuminating smart wagering strategies. Finally, Heidi Gardner, SNL cast member and Chiefs superfan, shares her comedic journey and thoughts on her beloved team. The conversation blends football insight with humor, creating an engaging dialogue for both sports and comedy enthusiasts.

Cousin Sal, a sports betting guru with a knack for humor, joins the conversation to analyze NFL win totals for the NFC and guess lines for Week 1. Dick Ebersol, former chairman of NBC Sports, shares captivating stories about the inception of 'SNL', deals with the NBA and NFL, and memorable moments with Bill Russell. They explore the evolution of sports broadcasting, reflect on pivotal career milestones, and discuss the dynamics of sports media. Humor and nostalgia blend as they navigate the thrilling world of NFL predictions.

Join sports analyst Ryen Russillo and Cousin Sal as they dissect the impact of Donovan Mitchell's blockbuster trade to the Cavaliers and its ripple effects on teams like the Knicks. They delve into the complexities of the NBA trade landscape, discussing player roles and franchise strategies. The conversation shifts to NFL win totals, highlighting teams like the Patriots and Bills, while exploring quarterback dilemmas and expectations for the upcoming season. Get insights on team dynamics and the thrilling betting frenzies in both leagues!

Danny Heifetz, a fantasy football guru from The Ringer, joins forces with Craig Horlbeck, Danny Kelly, and Sheil Kapadia to dive into this year's fantasy football draft strategies. They passionately debate standout players like Justin Jefferson and Nick Chubb, uncover risky picks like Adam Thielen, and assess the buzzing hype around the Eagles and Jalen Hurts as Super Bowl contenders. Humorous anecdotes and lively discussions about the Eagles' rivalry with the Cowboys add an extra layer of excitement to the conversation.

The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Warren Sharp to discuss the Patriots' grim outlook for the 2022-23 NFL season, AFC playoff predictions, the case for and against Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins, the reloaded Bengals, and more (2:22), before Joe House joins in and they discuss their favorite NFL future bets (28:02). Finally, Bill is joined by Justin Termine of SiriusXM to discuss a couple of NBA topics including: the Heat's lackluster offseason, managing expectations for the Nets, the wildcard 76ers, the Suns perhaps missing their title window, and more (1:20:53).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Warren Sharp, Joe House, and Justin TermineProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Peter Schrager of NFL Network and Fox Sports to declare definitively whether they are in or out on a range of NFL topics, including a Rams Super Bowl Hangover, Trey Lance, Russell Wilson, the reloaded Bengals, the new-look Chiefs, the Raiders, and more (1:40). Then, Bill talks with Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated about Chet Holmgren’s potential season-ending injury during a pro-am game, the Thunder’s expectations for the upcoming NBA season, and a proposed Lakers-Pacers trade (58:32). Plus, did the Celtics offer Jaylen Brown for Kevin Durant? A boxing update, and more (1:17:46).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Peter Schrager and Chris MannixProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matthew Berry, a fantasy football expert who transitioned from ESPN to NBC Sports, shares his insights on prepping for fantasy leagues. He discusses the advantages of super-flex leagues and the evolving strategies involved in fantasy football. The conversation delves into high-scoring NFL teams, with picks for top quarterbacks and standout players. Berry also reflects on his career shift and upcoming projects, while offering essential tips for crafting a winning fantasy team this season.

Rob Mahoney, an NBA writer for The Ringer, and Wosny Lambre, a contributor with keen insights on basketball dynamics, discuss Kevin Durant's trade value and his complex relationship with the Brooklyn Nets. They explore the emotional and contractual intricacies influencing his future. Later, Juliet Litman, a pop culture expert, delves into Nathan Fielder's provocative show 'The Rehearsal,' examining its ethical questions and blurred lines between reality and performance.