

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

Jan 17, 2022 • 1h 28min
A Cowboys-Pats Sadness Contest, Apex Allen, Boger-mania, and Round 2 Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports commentator, joins to dissect the latest NFL playoff heartbreaks, including the Cowboys' latest loss and the Bills' domination over the Patriots. They analyze key matchups, quarterback performances, and the role of officiating errors in shaping playoff narratives. Sal shares humorous parenting anecdotes, blending sports bets with life’s challenges, and they engage in spirited predictions about the upcoming games. Their banter reveals the emotional rollercoaster of being a football fan, making for a deeply relatable and entertaining discussion.

Jan 13, 2022 • 2h 9min
Jimmy G’s Last Stand, Stafford’s Swoon, and Round 1 Million-Dollar Picks with Ben Solak and Peter Schrager
Join NFL analyst Ben Solak, known for his insightful contributions at The Ringer, and Peter Schrager, from Good Morning Football, as they dive into the NFL playoffs. They dissect the fallout from the Rams-Cardinals game and its implications for Matthew Stafford’s trade perception. Is Jimmy Garoppolo the unsung hero of the 49ers? The duo delves into critical playoff matchups, quarterback dynamics, and even makes their coveted Million-Dollar Picks, blending strategy and humor in their analysis.

Jan 12, 2022 • 1h 56min
All-NBA Midseason Picks and ‘Yellowstone’ the Unicorn With Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and Matthew Belloni
The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Justin Verrier and Rob Mahoney to discuss midseason All-NBA teams, honorable mentions, Ben Simmons trade rumors, why the Trail Blazers should "blow it up," MVP odds, and more (2:14). Then Bill talks with Matthew Belloni of Puck News about 'Yellowstone' and its streaming debacle, TV shows that were reinvigorated by pandemic viewing habits, the Golden Globes boycott, best options to host the Oscars and more (1:12:21).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and Matthew BelloniProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 10, 2022 • 1h 40min
The Greatest Almost-Tie, Comeback Niners, Choking Colts, Sloppy Pats, and Round 1 Lines With Cousin Sal
In conversation with Cousin Sal, a sports betting guru known for his humorous insights, they analyze the thrilling overtime victory of the Raiders over the Chargers and the 49ers' stunning comeback against the Rams. The duo dives into the precarious situations of quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Carson Wentz, sparking discussions about their futures. As they predict playoff matchups and lines, they humorously dissect betting strategies influenced by the unpredictable NFL landscape and reflect on the personal joys and challenges of the football season.

Jan 7, 2022 • 1h 28min
Kupp’s MVP Case, Turning on Daniel-San, ‘Cobra Kai,’ and Million-Dollar Picks With Peter Schrager and Shea Serrano
In this lively discussion, NFL Network’s Peter Schrager dissects Cooper Kupp's MVP candidacy, showcasing his historic season alongside rookie contenders like Jamar Chase. Betting strategies for NFL Week 18 are also explored, revealing intriguing team matchups. Shea Serrano shares his thoughts on 'Cobra Kai,' expressing mixed feelings about Daniel-san’s character evolution and the show's narrative depth. They also celebrate the heartwarming moments of 'Abbott Elementary,' praising its authentic portrayal of educators and impactful storytelling.

Jan 5, 2022 • 1h 55min
The Curry-LeBron Legacy Battle, Ja’s Mega-leap, and Jabari Smith’s Lottery Rise With Seerat Sohi, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann
Join Seerat Sohi, a talented writer for The Ringer, as she dives into the legendary legacies of LeBron James and Steph Curry, discussing their rivalry and its impact on the NBA. Rob Mahoney shares insights on Ja Morant's rapid growth and the Memphis Grizzlies’ competitive edge this season. Finally, J. Kyle Mann showcases top NBA draft prospects, including the exciting Jabari Smith, analyzing what makes these young players stand out in the league. Expect a lively debate on history, team dynamics, and future stars!

Jan 3, 2022 • 1h 27min
AB’s Meltdown, 2021 Losers, and Week 18’s Playoff Puzzle With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular commentator known for his sharp sports insights, joins the conversation. They dive into the thrilling comeback of the Buccaneers against the Jets and dissect the playoff picture for various NFL teams. Sal and Bill analyze coaching strategies, surprise performances, and frustrations with player inconsistencies. The duo also shares humorous takes on betting strategies and speculates on Coach of the Year candidates. To lighten the mood, they touch on the quirks of parenting in their Parent Corner.

Dec 30, 2021 • 2h 15min
Tasty NFL Underdogs, COVID Misconceptions, and 2021’s Teen Culture Awards With Peter Schrager, Derek Thompson, and Zoe Simmons
In this engaging discussion, Derek Thompson, a talented staff writer from The Atlantic, critiques COVID-19 media coverage, emphasizing its role in shaping public fear. NFL expert Peter Schrager analyzes the Cardinals' struggles amidst Super Bowl predictions. Meanwhile, Zoe Simmons shares a youthful perspective on 2021's teen culture, from evolving slang to the impact of social media on relationships. They explore both the comedic and serious sides of contemporary trends, creating a lively dialogue that blends football, health insights, and generational culture.

Dec 29, 2021 • 2h 18min
John Madden’s Incredible Career With Bryan Curtis, and Most Regrettable NBA Contracts With Wosny Lambre and Joe House
Joining the conversation are Bryan Curtis, a writer for The Ringer known for his insights on sports media, Joe House, an NBA analyst, and Wosny Lambre, specializing in NBA commentary. They fondly remember the legendary John Madden and his profound impact on sports culture and media. The trio also dives into NBA playoff dynamics, discussing surprising team performances and detailing the most regrettable contracts, including those of Michael Porter Jr. and Klay Thompson, blending strategic analysis with playful banter.

Dec 27, 2021 • 1h 20min
Buffalo’s Revenge, Washington’s Disgrace, the Endless NFL Season, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a comedic sports betting expert, joins to analyze the Cowboys' thrashing of the Washington Football Team and the thrilling playoff picture. They dig into key performances from rookie quarterbacks and highlight surprising upsets, like the Texans over the Chargers. Delving into fantasy football frustrations, they share personal anecdotes about lineup decisions. The duo also guesses lines for NFL Week 17 with humor, while blending in pop culture references, making for an entertaining sports talk.


