The Ryen Russillo Podcast

Jeff Passan, ESPN's baseball senior writer, shares his insights on the World Series, praising Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge's unique talents. He analyzes the strategic dynamics of playoff baseball and discusses the historic Yankees vs. Dodgers rivalry. Political commentator Chris Cillizza joins to examine the upcoming election, emphasizing its uniqueness and the role of media in shaping public perception. Together, they navigate the intricate connection between sports and politics, delving into societal implications at this pivotal moment.

Todd McShay, ESPN college football analyst and quarterback expert, joins to dissect Georgia's impressive football performance and the evolving landscape of college rankings. They dive into the Heisman race and analyze quarterback strategies in the NFL, exploring how injuries affect team dynamics. The conversation also touches on the Kansas City Chiefs' resilience amid challenges, highlighting the grit required to continue winning. Additionally, they share some lighthearted life advice, blending sports insights with humorous anecdotes.

Danny Kanell, a former college football quarterback and sports analyst, shares insights on the impact of NIL deals and player transfers in college football. He previews the highly anticipated Georgia-Texas matchup. Former NFL stars Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman join in to reminisce about their favorite teammates and the nostalgia of their playing days. They engage in playful banter and rate each other based on vibes, all while reflecting on the bonds formed through football camaraderie.

Jesse Palmer, an ESPN and ABC college football analyst and former NFL quarterback, brings his expertise to the conversation. He shares insights on the SEC's current landscape and reveals a memorable recruiting story. The discussion also dives into the challenges facing Alabama's quarterback amid their struggles, alongside highlights from teams like Texas and Oregon. Palmer humorously relates experiences from 'The Bachelor,' merging sports with personal anecdotes, while also addressing the balance between career and passions.

Stanford Steve, a college football analyst for ESPN known for his insights on College GameDay, shares his thoughts on the high-stakes Ohio State vs. Oregon matchup. He delves into team strengths, injuries, and the dynamics of college football culture. Mirin Fader, a writer for The Ringer and author of 'Dream: The Life and Legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon,' recounts Hakeem's transformative journey from novice to NBA legend, highlighting mentorship and the challenges he faced along the way. Their engaging conversations blend sports analysis with inspiring personal stories.

Russillo opens the show with a look at past Heisman winners and how that history can be applied to this year (0:30) before Ceruti joins to go over the annual NBA GM survey (15:02). Then, he’s joined by Kevin Millar to break down the divisional round, share stories from his playing days, and explain why it’s not time to panic about Aaron Judge (31:18). Next, John Buccigross comes on to preview the upcoming NHL season and explain the significance of Wayne Gretzky’s goal record (54:20). Finally, Ceruti and Kyle join for Life Advice (81:02)! How do I handle someone being too flirty with my girlfriend?Check us out on YouTube for exclusive clips, live streams, and more at https://www.youtube.com/@RyenRussilloPodcastThe Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Host: Ryen RussilloGuests: Kevin Millar and John BuccigrossProducers: Steve Ceruti, Kyle Crichton, and Mike Wargon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Todd McShay, a prominent ESPN college football analyst, joins to discuss the impact of NIL on leveling the college football playing field. They dive into the chaotic nature of this season with surprising upsets, including Alabama's recent struggles. McShay shares insights on Heisman contenders and evaluates the Bengals' performance as they face a challenging season. The conversation also touches on rookie quarterbacks and how transferring players reshuffle team dynamics, reshaping the future of college football.

Adnan Virk, an MLB Network host and analyst, discusses the emotional rollercoaster of the MLB playoffs, sharing insights into team dynamics and standout players. He humorously critiques the playoff format while connecting it to fan experiences. Later, Josh Brown, CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management and author, talks about his new book, exploring the complexities of financial advice in the post-pandemic economy. He offers practical tips for young adults on investment strategies and financial health, blending humor with valuable life lessons.

Chris Long, a former NFL player celebrated for his time with the Eagles, joins to delve into the Eagles' struggles and share insights from his career. The conversation touches on Davante Adams's trade request, revealing the complexities of player dynamics in the league. Long humorously reflects on Philadelphia's unique culture and adds personal anecdotes about the trials of home repairs. The episode also features memorable interactions with the audience, balancing sports analysis with light-hearted banter.

Todd McShay, a renowned sports analyst specializing in college football and NFL draft insights, joins the discussion. They dive into the implications of the recent Georgia-Alabama showdown, revealing standout player performances. The duo also updates the Heisman Eliminator, specifically noting Jayden Daniels' impressive rise. McShay shares his thoughts on the evolving quarterback landscape and the prospects of top college players, while Russillo ranks NFL divisions by confidence after the season’s first quarter.