

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

Sep 24, 2021 • 1h 42min
Chiefs Doubts, Brady in L.A., Million-Dollar Picks, and Sox-Yanks With Peter Schrager and Bill’s Dad
Peter Schrager, an NFL Network analyst known for his sharp insights, joins Bill Simmons to dissect the Chiefs' defensive woes and share Million-Dollar Picks for Week 3. They delve into upcoming NFL matchups, highlighting betting strategies and player performances. Meanwhile, Bill chats with his dad about the Red Sox's hopes for the season, their struggles, and reflections on Tom Brady's legacy. Humor and passion for sports blend throughout as they celebrate the excitement of the upcoming weekend in sports.

Sep 22, 2021 • 1h 27min
A Zach Lowe–Jackie MacMullan Reunion on West Sleepers, Toughest Coaching Gigs, and Ben Simmons Options
Zach Lowe, an NBA writer for ESPN and The Ringer, teams up with veteran sports journalist Jackie MacMullan for a lively basketball chat. They dive into sleeper teams in the West and the debate on whether the East has become stronger than the West. The discussion shifts to the ongoing Ben Simmons saga, weighing trade options and the complexities of player dynamics. They also touch on NBA rule changes and reflect on coaching challenges amid evolving team landscapes. This engaging conversation is a treat for basketball fans!

Sep 20, 2021 • 1h 30min
Lamar Jacks the Chiefs, the Kliff-Kyler Roller Coaster, and Guess the Lines Week 3 With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports betting expert, joins to recap a wild NFL Week 2, highlighting the Ravens' thrilling win over the Chiefs and dissecting crucial plays, including a game-swinging fumble. The duo dives into the struggles of veteran quarterbacks and examines the unpredictable nature of the league this season. They also discuss MVP odds and share humorous anecdotes about family life and weddings. Get ready for their betting insights and predictions for Week 3, blending sports analysis with a dash of fun.

Sep 17, 2021 • 1h 43min
Red-Hot Million-Dollar Picks, the Mannings, and Fantasy Strategies With Peter Schrager, Bryan Curtis, and Craig Horlbeck
Peter Schrager, NFL analyst from Fox Sports, dives into Million-Dollar Picks, sharing insights on betting strategies for the upcoming week. Bryan Curtis discusses the innovative Peyton and Eli Manning 'Monday Night Football' broadcast and how it could revolutionize sports commentary. Craig Horlbeck presents must-add fantasy players post-Week 1 and highlights standout QBs. The trio also analyzes surprising NFL team performances, revealing what to expect going forward—all packed with humor and engaging anecdotes!

Sep 15, 2021 • 1h 51min
RIP, Norm Macdonald. Plus, the McCourty Twins and Bill’s Favorite Actor, Jon Bernthal
Bill Simmons chats with Daniel Kellison, a close friend of the late Norm Macdonald, reminiscing about Norm's unique humor and legacy. Super Bowl champions Devin and Jason McCourty share their experiences of competing as brothers, their thoughts on iconic QBs, and their charity work for sickle cell awareness. Finally, actor Jon Bernthal discusses his roles in 'The Walking Dead' and 'The Punisher,' as well as his favorite sports movies, offering insights into his journey in Hollywood.

Sep 13, 2021 • 1h 47min
Stinky Rodgers, Week 1 Overreactions, Guess the Lines, and Parent Corner With Cousin Sal and Jimmy Kimmel
Joining Bill Simmons and Cousin Sal is Jimmy Kimmel, late-night icon and executive producer of the ESPN doc 'Once Upon a Time in Queens'. They dive into NFL Week 1 overreactions, dissecting teams like the Saints and Falcons, while humorously debating Aaron Rodgers' performance. Kimmel shares behind-the-scenes stories from his documentary about the legendary 1986 Mets season, and they wrap up with some parenting tales that add a light-hearted touch to the discussion. Perfect blend of sports and laughter awaits!

Sep 10, 2021 • 1h 22min
A Bucs-Cowboys Classic! Plus: Million-Dollar Picks and a Shocking Super Bowl Prediction With Peter Schrager
Peter Schrager, NFL Network and Fox contributor, joins to offer his expert insights on the thrilling Bucs vs. Cowboys season opener. They dive into Dak Prescott's performance and Tom Brady's impressive skills at age 44. The conversation shifts to NFL futures, where Schrager shares key betting predictions and discusses breakout stars like Kyle Pitts. Also, they hint at a highly anticipated Patriots-Buccaneers showdown and share betting strategies for a historic NFL season ahead.

Sep 8, 2021 • 1h 40min
A 76ers Soap Opera, RIP Michael K. Williams, and Kanye’s Latest With Wosny Lambre, Joe House, and Van Lathan
Join Van Lathan, a keen commentator on culture, and Joe House, a savvy sports analyst, as they dissect the bizarre saga surrounding Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers, likening it to a messy relationship. They pay tribute to the late Michael K. Williams and dive into the themes of redemption in sports and cultural impact. The conversation shifts to Kanye West's latest album and its reception in today’s complex music landscape, rounding out a compelling discussion of legacy both on and off the court.

Sep 6, 2021 • 1h 1min
Part 1: AFC/NFC Over/Unders With Cousin Sal
Joining the conversation is Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert and frequent contributor to the Extra Points Podcast Network. The duo dives into the excitement of the NFL season, sharing amusing stories and discussing over/under win totals for every team. They assess the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots' expectations while reflecting on memorable moments in betting culture. Sal also highlights potential breakout players like Kyle Pitts and debates the strengths of the Buccaneers against the challenges faced by the Saints.

Sep 6, 2021 • 1h 10min
Part 2: Guess the Lines Week 1 and Best NFL Futures. Plus, Parent Corner With Cousin Sal.
Join Cousin Sal, a regular contributor known for his witty takes on sports betting and parenting, as he dives into NFL futures and rookie quarterback evaluations. They humorously discuss bold bets for the upcoming season, along with the unpredictable dynamics of early games. Sal shares relatable parenting anecdotes about milestones and the challenges of raising teens. Expect a blend of NFL insights and entertaining family tales that keep the conversation lively!