

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

Dec 22, 2020 • 3h 4min
The 2021 NBA Over/Under Mega Preview With Ryen Russillo and Joe House
Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports analyst, teams up with Joe House, a sports journalist known for his insightful commentary. Together, they delve into predictions for NBA win totals and MVPs, analyzing the Lakers' dynamics under LeBron James' leadership and discussing the Clippers' roster concerns. They evaluate team prospects, including the Suns and Wizards, while scrutinizing player impacts and trade strategies. With humor and sharp analysis, they offer entertaining insights into this unique NBA season.

Dec 21, 2020 • 1h 45min
The Jets Win! (No!!!) Plus: MVP Watch, Hurts vs. Murray, and the Parlay Murderer With Cousin Sal and Sean Fennessey
Joining the conversation is Sean Fennessey, a writer for The Ringer known for his sharp sports insights. They humorously tackle Jets fans' frustrations after a win that complicates their draft hopes. The hosts discuss Jalen Hurts's impressive play in a losing effort against the Cardinals, debate the MVP race between top quarterbacks, and predict upcoming NFL games with a critical eye. Additionally, they share light-hearted banter about holiday football plans and parenting anecdotes, rounding out a lively discussion perfect for sports fans.

Dec 17, 2020 • 1h 33min
The Future of Sports With Barack Obama and Bakari Sellers. Plus, Million Dollar Picks Week 15.
Barack Obama, the former president of the United States, shares his experiences from the NBA bubble and discusses athletes as advocates for social justice. He delves into how sports leagues responded to COVID-19 and examines the debate around paying college athletes. Bakari Sellers adds his insights on activism in sports and the historical context of these issues. Both reflect on parenting during quarantine and share humorous anecdotes, making for a lively and thought-provoking conversation.

Dec 15, 2020 • 1h 36min
Giannis Stays! Plus: Mark Cuban on Luka’s Ceiling, NBA Bubble Lessons, and Dirk as Dallas’s Sports GOAT.
Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks and a savvy entrepreneur, dives into the NBA landscape’s shifts. He discusses the significance of Giannis's supermax deal for the Bucks and small-market teams. Cuban shares insights from the successful NBA bubble, emphasizing player safety and evolving officiating. He reflects on building the Mavericks around Luka Doncic, comparing him to Dirk Nowitzki's legacy. The conversation also touches on NBA expansion, changing player dynamics, and the future of team management in the aftermath of COVID-19.

Dec 14, 2020 • 1h 29min
Bills vs. Steelers, Hurts vs. Wentz, Tua vs. Mahomes, and the First Puppy Weekend With Cousin Sal
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Cousin Sal to discuss the Bills' win over the Steelers that shook up the AFC playoffs standings, the Chiefs' win over the Dolphins, Cardinals-Giants, Saints-Eagles, Philadelphia's QB situation, Falcons-Chargers, Texans-Bears, cross-off teams, and more (2:00). Then they Guess the Lines for Week 15 (53:00) and close the show with Parent Corner (1:18:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 9, 2020 • 2h 11min
The Unhappy NBA Star Era, 2020 New York Sports, and MTV’s 'The Challenge' With John Jastremski and Dave Jacoby
Join John Jastremski, a WFAN radio host passionate about New York sports, as he dives into the discontent sweeping the NBA with players demanding trades. He shares insights on the struggles facing iconic teams like the Knicks and Mets, sparking a candid discussion on fans' frustrations. Meanwhile, Dave Jacoby, former ESPN colleague, takes a nostalgic detour into MTV’s 'The Challenge,' analyzing new competitors and the show's evolution. Their lighthearted banter reveals the quirky drama that keeps viewers hooked.

Dec 7, 2020 • 1h 39min
The Bizarro Browns, Frisky Giants, Zombie Pats, and Bad-News Jets With Cousin Sal
Dive into the chaotic world of the NFL as the Browns showcase their playoff potential with a stunning win. Meanwhile, the Patriots deliver an unexpected blowout, leaving betting odds in disarray. The unpredictable performances of teams like the Jets and Broncos spark animated discussions, along with insights on coaching dynamics. The hosts also tackle humorous parenting challenges, reflecting on teen driving lessons and adopting a puppy during the pandemic, blending sports talk with life’s quirky moments.

Dec 4, 2020 • 2h 3min
Harden’s Next Team, Westbrook the Wizard, and Pittsburgh’s 19-0 Quest With Joe House and Ryan Shazier
Joe House, a basketball contributor for The Ringer known for his keen insights, and Ryan Shazier, a dedicated former linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, discuss pivotal NBA and NFL topics. They delve into the potential implications of James Harden's trade, highlighting contenders and strategies. House shares thoughts on Russell Westbrook's impact on the Wizards, while Shazier offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Steelers' season, tackling injuries and team dynamics. Their lively banter keeps the conversation engaging and insightful.

Dec 2, 2020 • 1h 44min
Tony Kornheiser and Dave Chang
Tony Kornheiser, the witty ESPN commentator known for his insights on sports, teams up with celebrity chef Dave Chang, who recently won ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’. They dive into the NFL's struggle with COVID-19 and the changing landscape of sports journalism. Chang shares his experience of supporting the Southern Smoke Foundation, while discussing the restaurant industry's pandemic hurdles and innovations. Their conversation reflects humor, nostalgia, and a passion for culinary creativity in trying times.

Nov 30, 2020 • 1h 22min
NFL COVID Woes, Giants Fever, Tyson-Jones, and Thanksgiving Shenanigans With Cousin Sal
In this discussion, the hosts dive into the bizarre situation where the Broncos faced off without a quarterback, highlighting the NFL's quirky COVID challenges. They analyze recent matchups, including the Saints' win and the stunning Falcons' performance. The boxing scene gets a spotlight with Tyson and Jones' surprising showdown, and Snoop Dogg's commentary adds humor. They wrap up with light-hearted Thanksgiving tales, exploring family antics amidst football craziness while also tackling betting strategies for the upcoming games.