The Ryen Russillo Show

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Seahawks Expose Patriots: Why Seattle Was Ready for the Super Bowl and the Pats Weren’t w/ Troy Aikman Feb 09, 2026

Show notes

Ryen opens with the Seahawks’ convincing win in Super Bowl LX, Mike McDonald’s rise, and how Patriots fans should feel after the loss. Then, he welcomes three-time Super Bowl champion Troy Aikman to break down the game, including why Sam Darnold couldn’t have had early success, how difficult it is to play a defense like Seattle’s, and where the Patriots go from here. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti jump in for some listener-submitted Life Advice, including too much spray deodorant and a deadbeat roommate. SEAHAWKS ARE CHAMPS (1:46) Was it a boring Super Bowl? (4:14) Mike MacDonald’s rise & Seattle’s second Super Bowl win (10:26) How hard should we be on the Patriots? (12:33) Drake Maye’s playoff struggles TROY AIKMAN (16:23) Biggest takeaway from the Super Bowl (20:36) Mike MacDonald winning in Year 2 (23:28) Looking back at the rise of his ’90s Cowboys teams (27:49) Happy for Sam Darnold (32:39) How hard it is to play Seattle’s defense (35:02) Where the Pats go now (41:34) Eight Beer and the Landman scene (43:24) ESPN’s first Super Bowl next year LIFE ADVICE (48:07) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-522-4700, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT. Eligibility restrictions apply. Terms: draftkings.com/sportsbook. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. Opt-in req. 1 Token per customer, valid only for min. $5 pregame NBA player prop bets w/ min. odds of -200 or longer. Tokens are single-use and expire at the start of the final of NBA game each day when offered. Must select token BEFORE placing bet. Customers who place bet w/ Token and pick day’s PRA stat leader will receive equal share of $1,000,000, issued as a non-withdrawable Bonus Bet that expires in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Sponsored by DK. _ _ _ _ _ Download the Gametime app and use code RUSSILLO for $20 off your first purchase. _ _ _ _ _ Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. One Love. _ _ _ _ _ Learn more at https://microsoft.com/m365copilot _ _ _ _ _

Giannis Trade Frustrations & Deadline Reaction w/ Chris Mannix, Plus Julian Edelman and Bo Jackson Feb 06, 2026

Show notes

Ryen is first joined by Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix to discuss the NBA trade deadline, including Giannis staying in Milwaukee (for now), why Harden makes sense for the Cavs, Zubac to the Pacers, and the rest of the major moves. Next, Patriots legend and three-time Super Bowl champion Julian Edelman stops by to talk about how surprising it is that New England got here and why he thinks they have a big advantage over the Seahawks. Then, Bo Jackson joins with some great stories about why he didn’t go to Alabama, how the Bucs screwed him over, and more. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti hop in for a Super Bowl alliance parlay and some listener-submitted Life Advice. CHRIS MANNIX (1:40) Giannis stays with the Bucks (for now) (9:32) Why Harden is right for the Cavs (14:47) Zubac to the Pacers (18:28) Jazz going for it? (26:34) What are the Bulls doing? (32:13) Wizards got Trae and AD for free (35:36) How gross the tanking is going to get (40:09) OKC gets McCain (45:39) Deals that were talked about but didn’t get done (52:27) Cam Thomas was worth nothing JULIAN EDELMAN (56:28) Transitioning from player to media (1:00:53) The legend of Vrabel in New England (1:05:38) Are the Pats back to their old ways? (1:09:50) His early days with the Patriots (1:13:04) Which Super Bowl he was most confident in (1:17:20) Why he likes the Pats over the Seahawks (1:28:34) Brady’s end in New England BO JACKSON (1:37:55) Bo Knows Men’s Health (1:46:20) What it was like being the coolest athlete (1:48:25) Story time from his high school sports days (1:55:20) Why he didn’t go to Alabama (1:57:13) How the Tampa Bay Bucs screwed him SUPER BOWL ALLIANCE PICKS (2:05:26) LIFE ADVICE (2:10:25) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to eligible U.S. residents physically located in an eligible jurisdiction. Void where prohibited. Valid DraftKings Sportsbook account req. Opt-in req. Token valid on Super Bowl LX live bets only. Min. $1 bet. Min. odds -500. Token auto-applied to eligible bets and will be reissued after each use. Each eligible customer receives 1 prize (i) non-withdrawable Bonus Bet that expires in 30 days, stake removed from payout; or (ii) single-use 20% profit boost token that expires 30 days after issuance, max bet $20. 30 days = 720 hours. Begins 2/8/26 at 6:30 PM ET and ends 2/8/26 at 11:59 PM ET. See Official Rules at sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos for all entry requirements, free method of entry, odds, and prize details. Sponsored by Crown Gaming Inc. _ _ _ _ _ Learn more at https://microsoft.com/m365copilot _ _ _ _ _

Vince Wilfork and Daniel Cormier, Plus Michelle Smallmon Hangs Out for Life Advice Feb 05, 2026

Show notes

Ryen is first joined by two-time Super Bowl champion Vince Wilfork to discuss his time with the Patriots, why he always knew Mike Vrabel would be a great head coach, and his case for why he’s actually the ultimate athlete. Then, UFC legend Daniel Cormier joins to talk about his journey into fighting, the chemistry between him, Rogan, and Anik, and turning down a scholarship to LSU. Finally, friend of the show and ESPN host Michelle Smallmon joins Kyle and Ceruti for a special four-wide edition of Life Advice. VINCE WILFORK (2:50) Remembering being drafted by the Patriots in 2004 (13:54) What he likes about the Patriots’ and Seahawks’ defenses (16:54) Always knew Vrabel would be a great head coach (21:07) Why Vince is the ultimate athlete DANIEL CORMIER (37:04) What it’s like to fight in the UFC (40:50) Starting in the UFC at 30 years old (44:09) Remembering some of his most intense fights (49:15) When he knew he was done (53:58) Chemistry with Rogan and Anik (57:58) Turning down an LSU football scholarship LIFE ADVICE with MICHELLE SMALLMON (1:01:08) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 2/22/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 2/15/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK. _ _ _ _ _

BONUS MINI POD: Anthony Davis & James Harden Traded! Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

In a bonus mini pod, Ryen shares his thoughts on yet another James Harden trade. This time, he’s headed to the Cavs for Darius Garland, and Ryen gives an inside look at why this might have gone down and what it means for both franchises going forward. Then, while they were taping, news broke that Anthony Davis was traded to the Wizards for...very little.

LIVE FROM SAN FRAN! Todd McShay and Steve Young, Plus Cavs–Kings Trade & Giannis Latest Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

Ryen and the show are live from San Francisco this week for Super Bowl LX! He opens with the Cavs–Kings trade and the latest on Giannis. Then, Todd McShay joins for a deep dive into the NFL draft, including where Mendoza stacks up against past quarterback prospects, what the Chiefs might do, and what a top-10 mock looks like. Next, Hall of Famer Steve Young stops by to break down his wild journey to the NFL and the 49ers, plus how his career compares to Sam Darnold’s. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti join for some listener-submitted Life Advice, including spilling beer on a child and whether a girl is really a bad texter. NBA OPEN (2:15) Cavs–Kings trade (9:07) Latest Giannis rumors TODD McSHAY (17:27) Where Mendoza stacks up against past QB prospects (27:14) Ty Simpson’s best landing spot (32:42) Is Garrett Nussmeier underrated? (40:26) Favorite Senior Bowl prospect (43:39) Chiefs at No. 9 (53:10) Is the SEC losing its draft dominance? STEVE YOUNG (1:00:52) Steve’s high school football roots (1:04:45) His decision to play in the USFL (1:08:26) Being the “highest-paid athlete in the world” (1:13:57) How he ended up with the 49ers (1:20:49) Similarities with Sam Darnold (1:29:14) Drake Maye LIFE ADVICE (1:35:05) _ _ _ _ _ GUS III LLC d/b/a DraftKings Predictions is a CFTC-registered Introducing Broker and NFA member. Event contract trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone. 1 per new customer. Opt-in req. 100% trade match. Max. $75 issued as non-withdrawable Predictions Dollars that expire in 1 year. Ends 2/8/26 11:59 PM ET. Market availability varies. Eligibility restrictions apply. Terms: https://predictions.draftkings.com/en/promos. Sponsored by DK. _ _ _ _ _

Giannis Trade Teams & Deadline Buyers/Sellers w/ Bobby Marks, Plus Unpacking CFB Portal Drama w/ Bruce Feldman Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

Ryen is joined by former NBA front office executive and current ESPN analyst Bobby Marks to go over what’s possible with Giannis trades and which teams make the most sense, plus which teams will be buyers and sellers at the trade deadline next week. Then, The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman stops by to discuss all the college football transfer portal drama. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti join for some listener-submitted Life Advice, including how to deal with a wild family cheating situation and how to make your hobbies more attractive to girls. BOBBY MARKS (1:46) Latest on Giannis trade rumors (6:12) Realistic Giannis teams (13:49) The role the Blazers play in Giannis’s future (17:03) Deadline buyers and sellers (19:49) Cavs (22:43) Lakers (27:21) Anthony Davis (28:14) Ja Morant (32:23) Rockets need a point guard BRUCE FELDMAN (44:16) Miami/Duke portal drama (55:49) Indiana/Vrabel comparison (1:08:27) Favorite off-the-radar draft guys LIFE ADVICE (1:17:00) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to eligible U.S. residents physically located in an eligible jurisdiction. Void where prohibited. Valid DraftKings Sportsbook account req. 3 sweepstakes: (1) begins 1/11/26 1:00PM ET, ends 11:59PM ET; (2) begins 1/18/26 3:00PM ET, ends 11:59PM ET; (3) begins 1/25/26 3:00PM ET, ends 11:59PM ET (each an Entry Period). Separate opt-ins req. Token valid on live bets on NFL games occurring during each Entry Period. Min. $1 bet. Min. odds -500. Token auto-applied to eligible bets and will be reissued after each use. Each eligible customer receives 1 prize: (i) non-withdrawable Bonus Bet that expires in 7 days, stake removed from payout, or (ii) single-use profit boost token that expires 7 days after issuance, max bet up to $20. 7 days = 168 hours. See Official Rules at sportsbook.draftkings.com/live-millions for entry requirements, free method of entry, odds, and prize details. Sponsored by Crown Gaming Inc. Sponsored by DraftKings. _ _ _ _ _ Learn more at https://microsoft.com/m365copilot _ _ _ _ _

Giannis Ready to Be Traded? Belichick HoF Snub w/ Voter Mike Sando, Plus Surprising & Disappointing NBA Teams w/ Austin Rivers Jan 28, 2026

Show notes

Ryen opens with the news that Giannis may be ready to be traded either before the deadline or this summer, and why this should have happened long before now. Then, he chats with Pro Football Hall of Fame voter Mike Sando about how and why Bill Belichick was snubbed as a first-ballot Hall of Famer. Next, NBC NBA analyst Austin Rivers stops by to talk about his favorite surprise team, the two most disappointing teams this season, and more. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti join for some listener-submitted Life Advice, including staying at an ex’s place and whether you should name a kid “Jack Hammer.” GIANNIS READY TO BE TRADED? (1:40) The timeline is annoying (6:08) What a Knicks deal might be MIKE SANDO (10:05) How Belichick was left out of the Hall of Fame AUSTIN RIVERS (24:15) What it’s like calling games (25:46) Hornets love (34:56) Are the Clippers back? (41:40) What’s wrong with the Magic & Paolo? (53:57) Are the Raptors for real? (1:01:16) Disappointing Cavs NBA ALLIANCE PARLAY (1:11:37) LIFE ADVICE (1:15:34) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 2/22/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 2/15/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK. _ _ _ _ _ Download the Gametime app and use code RUSSILLO for $20 off your first purchase. _ _ _ _ _ Learn more at https://microsoft.com/m365copilot _ _ _ _ _

Seahawks–Patriots Super Bowl, Brady–Maye Comps & Darnold’s Redemption w/ Fred Warner Jan 26, 2026

Show notes

Ryen opens with the Seahawks–Patriots Super Bowl matchup, Sam Darnold outdueling Matthew Stafford, and the inevitable Drake Maye–Tom Brady comparisons. Then, 49ers All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner returns to break down the games, what he remembers from Sam Darnold’s time in San Francisco, why the Patriots’ talent is better than people think, and his thoughts on Robert Saleh to the Titans and Mike McDaniel to the Chargers. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti join for listener-submitted Life Advice, including being snowed in, dating a co-worker’s daughter, and a potential fight with the in-laws. SEAHAWKS–PATS SUPER BOWL SET (1:40) Darnold wins a “big game” (6:20) Patriots win in Denver (13:10) Super Bowl pick FRED WARNER (17:32) How upsetting it was to watch Seahawks–Rams (21:15) Memories of Darnold with the 49ers (30:00) Tariq Woolen’s penalty (36:03) Patriots–Broncos (43:33) Seahawks more talented than Patriots (46:47) Saleh to the Titans (50:40) McDaniel to the Chargers (52:48) How close was Fred to playing vs. the Seahawks? LIFE ADVICE (59:45) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT. Eligibility restrictions apply. Terms: draftkings.com/sportsbook. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. Daily offers and requirements vary. Check out sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos for more information. Sponsored by DK. _ _ _ _ _ Learn more at microsoft.com slash m-three sixty-five copilot _ _ _ _ _

Conference Title Game Picks & Stidham Optimism w/ Chase Daniel & Ted Nguyen, Plus the UFC’s Dana White! Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

Ryen is joined by former NFL quarterback and current analyst Chase Daniel to discuss what it’s like as a backup being thrust into a massive spot, like Jared Stidham in Denver. They also pick both conference title games and get into some stories from Chase’s career. Next, The Athletic’s Ted Nguyen stops by for more on the games, why he thinks Stidham is actually pretty solid, and why he’s picking both underdogs. Then, UFC president Dana White joins the show to preview UFC 324, the White House fight, his interaction with Jake Paul, and more. Finally, Ryen gives out his NBA All-Star starters before Kyle and Ceruti join for some listener-submitted Life Advice, including using sick days and an awkward moment with a girlfriend’s dad. CHASE DANIEL (2:38) Can the Broncos win with Stidham? (14:29) Patriots punching above their weight (19:13) Why he’s picking the Broncos (22:28) Rams–Seahawks (26:57) Life as a backup QB in the NFL TED NGUYEN (39:29) Picking the Rams over the Seahawks (47:38) How big is the drop-off from Nix to Stidham? (57:06) Why he’s picking the Broncos DANA WHITE (1:06:06) UFC 324 (1:11:30) Sick of being asked about McGregor? (1:14:25) Can’t trust Jon Jones at the White House fight (1:16:00) His interaction with Trump and Jake Paul

Indiana Are Champs! How Cignetti Did It and Can It Be Replicated w/ David Pollack Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

Ryen opens with his thoughts on Indiana’s improbable national title and why he doesn’t think what Cignetti has done is something other, lesser programs can necessarily replicate. Then, he’s joined by David Pollack for more on the game, including Mendoza’s performance, why he thinks it’ll be hard for Indiana to run it back even if they’re more talented, and Miami’s future outlook. Finally, Kyle and Ceruti join for some listener-submitted Life Advice, including keeping a secret from a friend and moving home to work with your dad. INDIANA ARE CHAMPS (1:27) DAVID POLLACK (12:00) Mendoza stepped up again (17:52) Miami gave Indiana all they could handle (32:03) Does Indiana change CFB for smaller schools? (40:00) “The U” is officially back LIFE ADVICE (46:46) _ _ _ _ _ GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to eligible U.S. residents physically located in an eligible jurisdiction. Void where prohibited. Valid DraftKings Sportsbook account req. 3 sweepstakes: (1) begins 1/11/26 1:00PM ET, ends 11:59PM ET; (2) begins 1/18/26 3:00PM ET, ends 11:59PM ET; (3) begins 1/25/26 3:00PM ET, ends 11:59PM ET (each an Entry Period). Separate opt-ins req. Token valid on live bets on NFL games occurring during each Entry Period. Min. $1 bet. Min. odds -500. Token auto-applied to eligible bets and will be reissued after each use. Each eligible customer receives 1 prize: (i) non-withdrawable Bonus Bet that expires in 7 days, stake removed from payout, or (ii) single-use profit boost token that expires 7 days after issuance, max bet up to $20. 7 days = 168 hours. See Official Rules at sportsbook.draftkings.com/live-millions for entry requ

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