In our last Hot Takedown, the team looks at NFL chaos from this week and college basketball chaos to come. Plus: a Rabbit Hole with a curse.

Hot Takedown discusses the World Series and a new college football playoff format. Plus: a Rabbit Hole that has all of the sports.

Hot Takedown discusses the World Series and the Chiefs' woes. Plus: a RATPOR Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses our NBA predictions and the MLB playoffs. Plus: a Rabbit Hole all about first (and second) wins.

Hot Takedown discusses this last week in the NFL, MLB, WNBA and College Football and previews the NHL. Plus: A Rabbit Hole for losers.

Hot Takedown discusses the MLB playoffs and Cincinnati's CFB playoff chances. Plus: a special guest joins us for a family-themed Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses Tom Brady vs. Bill Belichick and the chaos in college football.  Plus: a Rabbit Hole on what's wrong with match play.

Hot Takedown discusses the Ravens' win over the Chiefs and the WNBA playoffs. Plus: a Rabbit Hole that's quite the catch(er).

Hot Takedown discusses Week 1 in the NFL and the latest no-hitter in MLB. Plus: a Rabbit Hole that messes with Texas.

Hot Takedown talks through our NFL predictions. Plus a WNBA at 25 Rabbit Hole.  

Hot Takedown surveys the college football landscape and the results at the Paralympics. Plus: an immaculate (inning) Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses Miguel Cabrera's 500th home run, the Little League World Series and the fall of Topps in our all-baseball extravaganza. 

Hot Takedown discusses the NL East and the NFL preseason. Plus an interview with author Greg Larson.

Hot Takedown looks back at the Tokyo Games and looks ahead to Lionel Messi at PSG. Plus: a Rabbit Hole on the comeback of the eephus pitch.

Hot Takedown looks at the MLB trade deadline and Olympic Gymnastics. Plus a record-setting track Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses the latest college football conference realignment and mental focus in the Olympics. Plus: a team name Rabbit Hole in honor of the Cleveland Guardians.

Hot Takedown discusses the Tokyo Olympics and the NBA Finals. Plus: an expansion draft Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown looks back at Game 3 of the NBA Finals and the MLB All-Star break. Plus: A rant about English soccer, as a treat.

Hot Takedown previews the NBA Finals and the controversies ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.

Hot Takedown discusses MLB's crackdown on sticky stuff and the NBA conference finals. 

Hot Takedown discusses the implications of the Supreme Court ruling in NCAA v. Alston and the NBA Conference Finals. 

Hot Takedown looks at the Stanley Cup playoffs and the Brooks-Bryson rivalry ahead of the U.S. Open. 

Hot Takedown looks at Julio Jones’s move from Atlanta to Tennessee and checks in on the NBA Playoffs. 

Hot Takedown discusses Naomi Osaka’s exit from the French Open and the NBA playoffs. 

Hot Takedown looks at no-hitter trend in MLB and the success of older athletes like Phil Mickelson. 

Hot Takedown looks at the start of the NHL and NBA playoffs. Plus: a Rabbit Hole that puts age before beauty in MLB.

Hot Takedown reflects on Albert Pujols exit and previews our WNBA predictions. 

Hot Takedown reviews NFL draft grades and discusses the NBA play-in tournament. Plus a Rabbit Hole about the past (and future) of tanking.

Hot Takedown discusses the top quarterbacks, after Trevor Lawrence, in the NFL draft as well as the hype around the Knicks. 

Hot Takedown looks at how a Super League would change European soccer and the state of the NBA MVP race. 

Hot Takedown looks at the start of the baseball season and previews the WNBA draft. 

Hot Takedown surveys the NCAA Tournament results and previews The Masters. Plus special guest Harry Enten brings an MLB Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown looks at the NCAA tournament’s Elite Eight and previews the baseball season. 

Hot Takedown looks at the NCAA's mistakes in this year's women's tournament and big upsets in the first two rounds of the men's tournament.

Hot Takedown looks at both NCAA tournament brackets and picks our Men and Women's Final Four.

Hot Takedown looks back at how sports adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus: a 16/16 Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses where Tiger Woods’ legacy goes from here and the surprising (regular season) success of the Utah Jazz. 

Hot Takedown talks through the results of the Australian Open and previews March Madness. Yes, it is almost March.

Hot Takedown looks at the start of the NHL season and the current state of sports video games. Plus: an MLB free agency Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown breaks down Super Bowl LV: how the Buccaneers dismantled the Chiefs’ offense and what this win means for Tom Brady’s legacy. 

Hot Takedown previews Super Bowl LV and discusses the tensions between MLB owners and players. 

Hot Takedown discusses the NFL conference championship games and the Baseball Hall of Fame. 

Hot Takedown discusses Drew Brees' legacy and James Harden's first days with the Brooklyn Nets.

Hot Takedown reflects on Alabama's title win and how sports will keep intersecting with politics after Trump.

Hot Takedown discusses the College Football Playoff finals and the NFL super wild card round. Plus: a Steph Curry-flavored Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown closes out the year with three different Rabbit Holes: QB picks, 2020 chalk, and games played on odd weekdays.

Hot Takedown breaks down our NBA predictions this year and everything wrong with the college football playoff. Plus: A Negro Leagues Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown discusses the Cleveland Baseball team’s name change and the College Football Playoff. Plus: A Rabbit Hole 11 seasons in the making. 

Hot Takedown looks at tanking in the NFL and the Wall-Westbrook trade in the NBA. Plus: a chaotic good Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown looks at the NFL’s uneven attempts to manage the pandemic and a historic first for college football. 

Hot Takedown looks at the challenges ahead for the upcoming college basketball season. Plus: a Rabbit Hole inspired by Theo Epstein. 

Hot Takedown covers the big trades ahead of the NBA draft and Kim Ng's hiring as GM of the Miami Marlins.

Hot Takedown breaks down the top five NFL teams according to our model and talks about the prospects for the College Football Playoffs.

In an election special, Hot Takedown explores the influence of politics on sports, and how money from sports makes its way into politics.

Hot Takedown discusses the World Series so far and the divergent fortunes of the Patriots and the Buccaneers.  Plus: a sartorial tour through championship patches in the Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses all things World Series: how the Dodgers and the Rays got here and who we think will win.

Hot Takedown discusses the NBA finals and the MLB postseason. Plus: a Rabbit Hole with its own mascots. 

Hot Takedown talks about the teams struggling in the NFL and about the excellent WNBA finals. Plus: a championship ring Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown previews baseball’s unusual postseason as well as the NBA finals. Plus: a southern-fried hockey Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown looks at this week's wave of injuries in the NFL and why our predictions still discount the LA Lakers. Plus: a Padres Rabbit Hole 14 years in the making. 

Hot Takedown unpacks Week 1 in the NFL and the Rockets’ exit from the NBA playoffs. Then, a single-elimination Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown previews the return of both the NFL and the English Premier League. Then, an interview with author Reid Forgrave.

Hot Takedown discusses the initial results of the NBA strike and previews the college football season, such as it is. 

Hot Takedown discusses the strike for racial justice that began in the NBA.

Hot Takedown looks at the Celtics’ and the Raptors' first round sweeps, and gives out our MVP awards at MLB’s month-long midseason. 

Hot Takedown discusses the start of the NBA and NHL postseasons. Plus: a division sweeping Rabbit Hole.  

Hot Takedown discusses the impending cancellation of college football and then draft our World Series picks. Plus: a wide open Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses the friction between college athletes, the Power Five, and the NCAA, and celebrates the return of live sports. 

Hot Takedown discusses baseball’s spike in positive coronavirus cases, the return of hockey, and an extra innings Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown previews the return of MLB and the semi-finals of the NWSL Challenge Cup. Plus, a trail running Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown talks about the Big 10 and Pac-12’s change to conference-only play, Manchester City’s appeal to be allowed to play in the Champions League, and a team (re)naming Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses the renewed push to change the name of Washington’s NFL team, our new NBA forecast, and a batting stance Rabbit Hole. 

Hot Takedown discusses the Patriot's newest MVP QB and the latest examples of athlete activism. Plus, a Rabbit Hole about pumping iron(s)

Hot Takedown discusses MLB's restart plan and how multiple leagues are coping with COVID-19. Plus, an NBA coaching Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses some NBA players' reservations with the league's restart logistics and previews the Premier League's return.

Hot Takedown assesses the NFL's rapid evolution on player protests and the NBA's plans to reopen in Disney World. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on fake players.

Hot Takedown discusses the sports world's response to the ongoing protests against police brutality towards black Americans.

Hot Takedown looks at the negotiations between MLB players and owners, and examines why golf has already made a successful comeback. Plus one last "Last Dance" Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown unpacks how truthful, and useful, the Michael Jordan docu-series is and debates some potential NFL diversity hiring incentives. Plus, a cricket-themed Rabbit Hole

Hot Takedown covers a new poll about what fans need to feel safe at live sporting events and discuss how it applies to the NBA. Then, an NCAA bribery Rabbit Hole, as a treat.

Hot Takedown talks to The Athletic's Meg Linehan about the latest news in the USWNT's lawsuit, and surveys which American leagues might be closest to reopening.

Hot Takedown covers the results of the NFL draft, Twitter drama about sports drafts, and a classic games Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown discusses where the NFL draft will get interesting, what's interesting about the new Michael Jordan documentary, and a rules-lawyering Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown talks prospects for the WNBA draft this week and prospects for the NBA generally. Then, author Brad Balukjian joins for a special baseball Rabbit Hole.

This week we discuss whether the president can help U.S. sports leagues restart and wrap up our NCAA tournament, then special guest Emily Scherer tackles the Rabbit Hole.

Hot Takedown talks about how the NBA might end its hiatus, the NCAA extending eligibility for student athletes, and an iRacing (i)Rabbit Hole.

It's been another big week of cancellations in sports, so the Hot Takedown team reacts to the postponement of the Olympic Games.

Hot Takedown looks at the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on both leagues and fans, and our Rabbit Hole remembers when sports were stopped in the past.

Last week, Nate Silver joined Hot Takedown on stage to discuss how RAPTOR has performed this NBA season. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on the unconventional way some players get paid.

Hot Takedown discusses the chaos in men's college basketball and who our model believes should be NBA Rookie of the Year. Plus, a Rabbit Hole from spring training.

In Sara's absence, Neil and Geoff discuss too much hockey and debate the merits of era adjusting records. The Athletic's Meg Linehan unpacks the latest in the USWNT lawsuit.

Changes to the NBA All-Star Game were well received but we have a few more ideas to improve the weekend. Plus, Manchester City's scandal and a Rabbit Hole on NFL dynasties.

Hot Takedown examines the full scope of Kobe Bryant's legacy and our Rabbit Hole celebrates some very bad hockey teams.

A close look at the Chiefs' Super Bowl comeback, why the Red Sox might trade Mookie Bets and a Rabbit Hole on improbable brawls.

Our Super Bowl Special! What to expect from the 49ers and the Chiefs this Sunday, the next frontier of football analytics and a Rabbit Hole on an unconventional champion.

The Astros sign-stealing scandal is back in the headlines and we're still not convinced it's worth the hype. Our Rabbit Hole examines the limitations of the Rooney Rule.

The Titans pulled off the largest NFL playoff upset (according to Elo), social media is transforming how we cover the NBA and a Rabbit Hole on what the NHL is doing right.

The NFL had a genuinely wild, wild-card weekend and Joe Burrow may be the most efficient college quarterback ever. Plus, Vince Carter's unique role in the NBA.

Hot Takedown explores the past 10 years in sports by assessing statistical changes, unlikely champions and new world records.

Hot Takedown unpacks the evolution of statistics in the NBA.

An interview from the ESPN Daily podcast that featured FiveThirtyEight's Josh Hermsmeyer. Josh recently wrote about the resurgence of fullbacks in the NFL.

Hot Takedown develops a rubric for assessing cheating scandals. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on the impact of hockey superstars.

Did WADA's ban on Russia (but not its athletes) from global competition go far enough? A non-controversial College Football Playoff and the secret of the NFC West.

A deep dive into MLB free agency and how the Patriots shape the narrative of the NFL. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on the late Brad Gobright and the evolution of rock climbing.

Are the Astros cheating or is sign stealing just baseball as usual? Plus, chaos in the College Football Championship and a Rabbit Hole on the demise of iconic nicknames.

A quantitative approach to Colin Kaepernick's NFL hopes. Mike Goodman joins to discuss a surprising EPL table. Our Rabbit Hole assesses MLB Hall of Fame candidates.

The role of analytics in load management and how we propose to fix the NBA regular season. Plus, recent NCAA eligibility decisions and a Rabbit Hole on rag-tag teens.

How Curry's injury affects the Warriors strategy and the merits of tanking across leagues. Plus, what to expect in college basketball and a Rabbit Hole on paper champions.

Our mid-season NFL check-in leads to a lively Super Bowl draft. The crew unpacks the Astros front-office scandal and our Rabbit Hole discovers another Rabbit.

It seems our NBA projections upset some pundits. On today's show, the crew backs them up, forecasts the World Series and argues over which rules the NFL should change.

The crew discusses allegations that MLB deadened the ball. Lyndsey D'Arcangelo joins to reflect on the WNBA season and a Rabbit Hole on Simone Biles and USA gymnastics.

Nate Silver dives under the hood of our new NBA metric: RAPTOR. Chris Herring joins to unpack the NBA/China controversy and a Rabbit Hole on the Twins.

This week, the show reflects on a season of extremes in MLB and an eventful first month of college football. Our Rabbit Hole defends a disrespected St. Louis Blues.

How the NBA's new tampering rules will affect the league. What to watch for in the final week of MLB regular season and a Rabbit Hole for Survivor fans.

The lasting impact of quarterback injuries from the NFL's second weekend. Lyndsey D'Arcangelo joins to discuss the WNBA Playoffs. Our Rabbit Hole marks the end of an era.

Hot Takedown reacts (but not overreacts) to Week 1 of the NFL season and break down what happens now with the Antonio Brown situation. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on Wes Helms?

A preview of our 2019-20 NFL prediction model and Kent Blackstone from the Atlantic League joins to discuss new tech headed for MLB. A Rabbit Hole tribute to fight songs.

What Andrew Luck's early retirement and Mike Trout's ring-less dominance says about their leagues. A Rabbit Hole celebrating the 20th anniversary of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater.

A breakdown of young players dominating the MLB, a look ahead to the 2019 college football season and a Rabbit Hole on the Little League World Series.

Hot Takedown unravels the logic behind fantasy football and weighs potential outcomes for the 2019-20 EPL title race. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on historic baseball upsets.

A better approach to EPL Fantasy, the density of champions in the WNBA, a search for NASCAR road course ringers and an appreciation for X Games events, past and present.

Hot Takedown looks at the MLB trade deadline and Lyndsey D'Arcangelo from The Athletic joins to discuss the WNBA. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on temper tantrums.

The role of analytics in the depreciation of NFL running backs and a Rabbit Hole that might make you wary of your ballpark seat assignment.

Nate Silver joins to discuss our 2019-20 NBA model. We look ahead to the British Open and dive into the unlikely tie break scenarios at Wimbledon and the Cricket World Cup.

The team assesses the MLB All-Star Game and is joined by Travis Sawchik to discuss his new book, The MVP Machine. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on New York ticker-tape parades.

This week, Hot Takedown discusses all the drama around NBA free agency, the merits of competitive eating and changes to World Cup scoring.

This week our crew looks at the quarterfinal matchup between the USA and France in the Women's World Cup, NBA free agency and a Rabbit Hole into sports boardgames.

We dive into the hottest takes of the NBA finals and analyze our Women's World Cup model. In the latest edition of "Get Off My Field", Sara demands more glowing objects.

Hot Takedown unpacks Game 5 of the NBA Finals and previews Game 7 of the NHL Stanley Cup Finals. Plus, a Rabbit Hole featuring Sara's Minnesota Twins fandom.

Hot Takedown discusses the upsets in the women's French Open and the strategies of the convoluted MLB draft, and our Rabbit Hole champions the Women's College World Series.

Nate Silver joins to discuss why our model favors Toronto in the NBA Finals. Plus, Tottenham's improbable road to the Champions League final and a Rabbit Hole on figurines.

Hot Takedown talks to author Caitlin Murray about USWNT's lawsuit for equal pay in advance of the Women's World Cup. Also, we get lost in disastrous baseball.

This week, Hot Takedown evaluates the NBA and NHL conference finals. Plus, our Rabbit Hole tracks the players who made the most rosters over their careers.

The crew examines promising performances by the Red Sox and a tight Premier League title run with Mike Goodman of StatsBomb. Plus, our Rabbit Hole explores good luck totems.

Hot Takedown checks the data behind Giants controversial no. 6 draft pick. ESPN's Kirk Goldsberry joins to discuss his new book, SprawlBall. Plus, a Rabbit Hole on horses.

Nate Silver joins the podcast to talk about the second round of the NBA playoffs. We also discuss Kyler Murray and the NFL draft and Nate rants about home runs in the MLB.

The Hot Takedown team gathers to assess upsets in the NBA playoffs, Tiger's historic win at the Masters and our Rabbit Hole dives into other great comeback stories.

Hot Takedown gathers to discuss the end of March Madness and debate who will become the NBA MVP. Plus, it's Masters week and our Rabbit Hole goes back to 1908.

Our upload earlier this week made Geoff sound like he was in a tunnel of sound. This fixes that. We talk NCAAM, MLB opening weekend, and our Rabbit Hole of the week.

Hot Takedown is buzzing with reactions to the March Madness Final Four. Plus, MLB opening weekend brought surprises and our Rabbit Hole of the Week has us feeling old.

The Hot Takedown crew reacts to a flurry of MLB extensions and make our predictions for the season. We debate NBA prospects for Williamson and Morant, plus an ode to Gronk.

This week, Hot Takedown previews the NCAA tournaments and make our Final Four picks. We also take stock of the NFL free agency and discuss strange NCAA mascots.

The podcast where the hot sports takes of the week meet the numbers that prove them right or tear them down.

Hot Takedown is back! This week, we tackle Antonio Brown's trade to the Raiders, the Mets going for it in the NL East and our Rabbit Hole of the week.

We're in The Lab to wrap up the season while discussing what makes these Warriors different from other NBA "dynasties" and where LeBron James should play next season.

The whole gang is back in the Lab to discuss what a potential sweep will do for the Warriors "dynasty" and LeBron's legacy. We also re-evaluate Finals MVP candidates and more.

With the Finals shifting to Cleveland, Neil and Kyle are in The Lab to discuss Curry's Finals MVP-worthy performance and wonder which player could step up to help LeBron.

Neil and Kyle are in The Lab to dissect the crazy ending to Game 1. We discuss JR's blunder, highlight what the Cavs did right and wonder what more LeBron has to do.

First, we're in The Lab to break down what went wrong for Houston and Boston and then we look ahead to Cavaliers vs. Warriors: Part IV.

The episode we posted earlier was incomplete. Listen to this one! The crew discusses the NBA conference finals and how the NFL's anthem policy differs from the NBA's.

The crew discusses the NBA conference finals and how the NFL's new anthem policy differs from the NBA's in fewer ways than you'd think.

Neil and Kyle discuss why all the teams in the two remaining series have been so dominant at times, and terrible at others.

The Celtics limited LeBron James -- is that a sign of things to come? The Warriors ran away with the end of the game -- are the Rockets doomed to be in the Warriors' shadow?

Neil and Kyle preview both conference finals matchups, and say goodbye to the eliminated teams.

The crew is in The Lab to break down Utah's impressive win in Houston, the continued problems for the Raptors, Curry's return and more.

The playoffs continue marching on and we're back in The Lab to break down the conference semi-final matchups in the East and West.

The playoffs keep marching on and we're back to discuss the Thunder's epic comeback against the Jazz, preview the Warriors-Pelicans second round series and more.

Neil and Kyle break down the weekend playoff action and discuss the three 2-2 series in the Eastern Conference. For the Raptors, Celtics and the Cavs, who should be worried?

We're back in the Lab to dive into the playoff series that are tied at 1-1 heading into Game 3. Is OKC in trouble? Can the Cavs get one back in Indiana? Should Embiid return?

We're in The Lab to look back on the opening weekend of the NBA playoffs. We discuss Dipo and the Pacers, wonders what the Blazers can do to stop AD, and more.

And now onto the Eastern Conference! We're back to preview all four first-round matchups in the East and offer our predictions for which teams will move on.

Playoffs are finally here! We're in The Lab to preview the matchups in the Western Conference and compare our predictions with those of FiveThirtyEight's CARM-Elo predictions.

This week, we're in The Lab to break down the Eastern Conference leading Toronto Raptors and their chances in this year's playoffs, Embiid's injury, Oladipo and more.

This week on The Lab, the crew dives into the impact of Steph Curry's injury on the Warriors' playoff run, touch on Kyrie's knee procedure and more.

This week in The Lab, we discuss the Jazz and their impressive re-build project this season, ask once again how legit the Rockets are, break down the problems in OKC and more.

Former Cavaliers GM David Griffin joins us in The Lab to discuss LeBron James, the Cavaliers and more.

This week in The Lab, the crew discuss the red hot Blazers, the intense playoff race happening out West and more.

Neil Paine and Nate Silver sit down with the USA curling team to talk about stats in curling and what it was like to win gold at Pyeongchang.

The whole crew is back in The Lab to discuss Jimmy Butler's injury, AD's performance after Boogie went down and the worst teams in the NBA.

Brian Windhorst joins us in The Lab to discuss possible new NBA playoff seedings. We also answer listener All-Star questions, discuss Toronto's surprising bench play and more.

Nate Silver is back in The Lab to help us try to fix the All-Star Game. Plus, we tackle the Utah Jazz's surprising winning streak, the fit for the new Cavaliers and more.

Nate Silver joins The Lab crew to discuss the new-look Cleveland Cavaliers and wonders which players will have the biggest impact on their new teams.

The Lab touch on the Blake Griffin trade and dive into the injuries that have plagued the league, from Kevin Love to John Wall and more.

The Lab investigate brewing problems in San Antonio and Cleveland and dive into where the Milwaukee Bucks can go now after firing head coach Jason Kidd.

Washington Post reporter Candace Buckner joins The Lab to discuss the Washington Wizards. We also dive into Kawhi's injury, NBA fights and more.

We're in The Lab this week to discuss Curry's return, Ball and the Lakers and the new and improved Timberwolves.

We're back for the new year to discuss IT's return, the strange lack of crazy stat lines this season and Andre Drummond, the point guard?

What's our most surprising team so far? Who's on our All-Rookie team right now? What should the Bulls do? We answer these and other questions from our listeners this week.

The Lab give their takes on #8 or #24, check in on what's going right or wrong in The Process and more.

We're in the Lab to discuss why OKC's outcasts are thriving and winning on their new teams and try to figure out how the Timberwolves are winning these close games.

Neil, Kyle and Chris discuss LeBron James and the Cavs' recent win streak, the MVP caliber season of James Harden and more.

Neil, Kyle and Chris chat about David Fizdale's firing and discuss the potential impact of Blake Griffin's latest injury.

Neil, Kyle and Chris are in The Lab to break down the problems with the OKC Thunder and discuss Lonzo's continued shooting woes.

The Lab is back to discuss the Celtics' surprising winning streak and wonders how long they can keep winning like this.

The Lab welcomes ESPN's Baxter Holmes to talk about NBA scheduling and tired players. Plus, Neil and Kyle discuss the Cavs situation and wonders if they should be worried.

Neil, Kyle and Chris are back in the Lab to discuss the transformation of Blake, KP and Aaron Gordon this season.

Before the season started, Chris Herring sat down with Hornets GM, Rich Cho, to discuss the new season, Dwight Howard and food.

Neil, Kyle and Chris are back to discuss what is going on in Phoenix and what we can decipher from Giannis' crazy start to the season.

Where do the Celtics go from here? Chris, Neil and Kyle are back to discuss what the Gordon Hayward injury means for Boston and more impressions from the NBA's opening night.

Chris Herring sits down with Jeanie Buss of the Los Angeles Lakers to discuss why family and basketball don't always mix and what to expect from Lonzo Ball this season.

The Lab, FiveThirtyEight's new NBA podcast, is back! Neil, Chris and Kyle break down the good and the not-so-good teams in the East.

FiveThirtyEight's new NBA podcast! Neil, Chris and Kyle discuss what to expect from each team in the West. Next week: the East.

On our final show, the Hot Takedown crew breaks down what we've learned and says farewell with a Hall of Fame hot take.

The HTD crew discusses Eli Manning's latest woes and debates whether the quality of play in the NFL is as low as it seems. Plus, a sig dig on baseball.

The HTD crew discusses Sloane Stephens' U.S. Open triumph and dissects the Cleveland Indians and Los Angeles Dodgers' recent streaks in the MLB.

The HTD crew is joined by ESPN's Mina Kimes, who drops by to discuss her Aaron Rodgers profile and helps us preview the start of the NFL season. Plus, a sig dig on tennis.

Neil Paine, Chris Herring and Kyle Wagner break down the megadeal between the Celtics and the Cavaliers, and talk about how the teams will play next season.

The HTD crew previews college football and discusses parity and which metrics matter most. Plus, the Lakers' latest woes and a significant digit on Felix Hernandez.

The HTD crew discusses Ezekiel Elliott's suspension, whether momentum in sports really exists, and a significant digit on the MLB's long and getting longer games.

The HTD crew is joined by Mike Goodman for an all soccer show that touches on the Neymar deal, previews the EPL, and questions if MLS is a Ponzi scheme.

The HTD crew chats about Kate's new book -- out today! -- and the MLB trade deadline.

The HTD crew discusses how NFL rookies are being paid less than they're worth, and takes a look at The Undefeated's 50 Greatest Black Athletes list.

The HTD crew revisits our first ever stat school on baseball, breaking down batting average, OPS, and wRC+.

The HTD crew is joined by Carl Bialik for a special stat school on tennis.

The HTD crew breaks down the latest in free agency moves in the NBA, with a significant digit on competitive eating.

The HTD crew discusses NBA MVP Russell Westbrook, John McEnroe's recent comments about Serena Williams, and how Tim Tebow is failing upward.

The HTD crew discusses the latest rumors and developments in the NBA draft. Plus, a significant digit on baseball.

The HTD discusses the MLB draft, whether this year's Warriors are the greatest NBA squad of all time, and the French Open.

This week, we shake up our format and bring you our analysis on the latest NHL headlines, plus a deep dive on the current competitive balance in the NBA.

The HTD crew discusses the NBA and NHL championship finals.

The HTD crew does an appreciation of Manu Ginobili, tries to figure out what's going on with the Cubs and breaks down an NFL rule change.

The HTD crew discusses the latest developments in the NBA playoffs, whether Derek Jeter is over or underrated, and the potential advantages of games at home in the playoffs.

The HTD crew discusses Isaiah Thomas vs. John Wall, the Mets' most recent struggles, and Nike's Breaking2 endeavor.

Kate has a new podcast! Take a listen to the first episode and subscribe in your favorite podcasting app.

The HTD crew discusses the racial lines drawn around football positions, the NHL playoffs, and the retirement of Paul Pierce.

The HTD crew previews the NFL draft, recaps the first round of the NBA playoffs, and checks in on the Champions League.

The HTD crew talks with Nate Silver about why the save ruined relief pitching and investigates the sub-two hour marathon.

The HTD crew discusses five candidates (Curry, Leonard, James, Harden, and Westbrook) for MVP of the NBA this year and crowns our champ.

The HTD crew discusses the men's and women's NCAA championships and the controversy around resting players in the NBA.

The HTD crew breaks down the first two rounds of March Madness, examines the potential strike brewing in U.S. women's hockey, and previews the MLB's National League.

The HTD crew dives into March Madness, chatting the men's and women's brackets and offering advice for making your picks. We also break down the NFL's latest free agency news.

Our second live show! We chat with Ravens center John Urschel about math and football, debate what Kevin Durant’s injury might mean for the Warriors, and talk NHL trades.

The HTD crew talks about the intersection of athletics and politics, discusses Claudio Ranieri's firing from Leicester City, and imagines baseball without statistics.

The HTD crew discusses DeMarcus Cousins' move to New Orleans, checks in on men's college basketball and ponders if James Harden is as much of an MVP as he thinks he is.

The HTD crew breaks down the NBA trade deadline, reviews the collapse of the Red Wings' dynastic glory, and chats home runs in the MLB.

The HTD crew breaks down the record shattering Superbowl LI and investigates whether Terrell Owens deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. Plus, a significant digit on the WNBA.

The HTD crew discusses the Super Bowl. Plus: the Australian Open, Charles Barkley vs. LeBron James, and more.

The HTD crew discusses the AFC and NFC championship games, chats with Duke's Lexie Brown on women's basketball, and takes a look at the Sixers' surprising hot streak.

The HTD crew breaks down the Packers' 34-13 victory over the Cowboys, the current state of the English Premier League, and whether Carmelo Anthony should leave the Knicks.

The HTD crew discusses Clemson's stunning fourth quarter defeat of the Crimson Tide, the possibility that a yacht made Odell Beckham Jr. play poorly, and streaks in the NHL.

The HTD crew previews Alabama vs. Clemson, chats on the quarterback injuries impacting the NFL playoff field, and investigates the Rockets' hot streak.

The HTD crew discusses college football and whether we've hit peak bowl numbers, Brock Osweiler's troubles in Texas, and if the Elo system can be applied to Christmas movies.

The HTD crew surveys the NFL playoff landscape, takes a deeper look at Andrew Wiggins' stats, and talks ties in Major League Soccer.

The HTD crew chats about college football playoff picks, the seemingly unstoppable Russell Westbrook, and what the new collective bargaining agreement means for the MLB.

The HTD crew discusses basketball, taking a look at men's and women's college teams as their seasons get underway. Plus, a return to the deadlocked World Chess Championship.

The HTD crew discusses the Packers' ongoing struggles, Thanksgiving football, and the firing of Jurgen Klinsmann as U.S. soccer coach.

Our series concludes with the "ultimate weapon," Randall Cunningham of the Philadelphia Eagles, who could do it all before anyone knew what to do with someone like him.

The HTD crew discusses the Steelers' insistence on going for two points, college football upsets and chats to Oliver Roeder about the World Chess Championship.

The crew discusses the choice between Dak Prescott and Tony Romo, 538's College Football forecast and chats to new 538 writer Chris Herring about bad teams in the NBA.

The story of Peaches Bartkowicz, Chris Evert, and the rise of a new way to hit the tennis ball. Reported by Emma Morgenstern.

Chad and Neil get together to break down the numbers behind the Cubs' historic victory. They also chat to Ollie Roeder about how that final out felt for a Cubs fan.

The HTD crew discusses the World Series, Russell Westbrook's extraordinary numbers and whether Tom Brady could win a Super Bowl on any NFL team.

Charles Reep pioneered soccer analytics, invented the long ball style, and helped ruin the English national team for a generation. Reported and produced by Joe Sykes.

The crew discusses the World Series with FiveThirtyEight's Rob Arthur, previews the NBA season and asks if the Warriors are the best true talent team of all time.

How Mike Smith, the Russia-obsessed coach of the Winnipeg Jets, changed the NHL forever. Part two of our five-part doc series, hosted by Neil Paine.

The HTD team discusses the MLB playoffs, the matchup between Candace Parker and Maya Moore in the WNBA and the start of the NHL season with Neil Greenberg.

Neil Paine tells the story of the rise, fall, and return of the defensive shift in baseball, which stumped Hall of Famer Ted Williams. The first in our five-part doc series.

ESPN's Mike Goodman joins the Hot Takedown crew to explain the strengths and weaknesses of soccer stats. Look out for Ahead Of Their Time in your feed this Thursday!

It's the NL Wild Card game tonight so we're bringing you a special episode of Chad Matlin's and Neil Paine's spin-off podcast about Mets fans' emotions, Panic City. Enjoy!

The HTD crew discusses the MLB playoffs with 538's Rob Arthur and then they ask each other whether the Carolina Panthers are done for the season. Plus, the Ryder Cup!

The crew discusses José Fernandez's extraordinary numbers, talks to SI's Lindsay Schnell about Louisiana firing Les Miles and hails Kevin Garnett's advanced metrics.

The crew discusses how much weight early season form has in the NFL, previews the WNBA playoffs and welcomes Mike Goodman to chat about Mourinho vs Guardiola.

The HTD crew talks to Bill Barnwell about the genius of Bill Belichick, breaks down baseball's movers and shakers and asks how 538 got its U.S. Open predictions so wrong.

Harvey Araton of The New York Times joins Carl to talk about Williams's upset loss, the globalization of tennis and Jimmy Connors's legendary run at the 1991 U.S. Open.

Carl Bialik talks to ESPNW's Jane McManus about the women's semis, the tennis media's gender gap and whether Kei Nishikori is on the verge of a breakthrough.

It's a pigskin special this week. HTD breaks down 538's NFL predictions, chats about the start of the college season and picks a new team for Blythe Terrell to root for.

18-time major winner, Chris Evert, joins Carl Bialik today. They chat about Serena Williams, the depth of women's tennis and what it takes to be the best in the world.

Carl Bialik chats to Louisa Thomas, a writer at the New Yorker, about the U.S. Open's brand new roof, the big four in men's tennis and Angelique Kerber's chances of success.

The HTD team is back together and this week they preview the EPL, talk to Carl Bialik about the U.S. Open and try to help 538's Blythe Terrell pick a new favorite NFL team.

FiveThirtyEight's U.S. Open podcast returns! Carl Bialik talks to Racquet Magazine's Caitlin Thompson and the WTA's Courtney Nguyen about their predictions for the tournament.

Hot Takedown digs into the vault this week to bring you two NFL Stat Schools back-to-back. Now's the time to pick your fantasy football teams using only advanced metrics.

Nate Silver joins the crew to tell us why the Olympic medal table is broken and how we should fix it. We also talk about the USWNT and Usain Bolt.

The HTD crew discusses the dominant performances by U.S. swimmers and gymnasts at the Olympics. Plus what Ichiro's stats would look like had he played his entire career in MLB

It's an HTD Olympics special. Allison McCann joins from Rio to preview the upcoming action. Then, Dave Zirin comes on to tell us why the Olympics are bad news for host cities.

The Hot Takedown crew discusses this year's Tour de France with the WSJ's Jason Gay, the Major League's trade deadline and the WNBA's stat-busting new star, Nnemkadi Ogwumike.

The HTD team discusses the developments in the Russian doping scandal, the mysterious return of the home run and Hungrybox, the Esports champ who's gone from god to GOAT.

The HTD Crew welcomes Mina Kimes to discuss Von Miller's fight against the franchise tag, Daniel Murphy's revenge tour and dead days in the sports calendar.

The HTD crew discusses Kevin Durant's move to the Warriors, the matchup between Bale and Ronaldo at the Euros and Djokovic's shock loss to Sam Querrey at Wimbledon.

The HTD crew discusses the legacy of women's basketball coach Pat Summitt, the Derrick Rose trade and Kevin Durant's potential move to the Warriors.

The HTD crew discusses the Cavs' miraculous comeback in the NBA Finals, the USMNT's performance at the Copa America and Cristiano Ronaldo's form at the Euros.

Justin Tinsley joins the team to talk LeBron's return to form, the Stanley Cup Finals and the Howard U. soccer team from 1971 stripped of its title because of a statistic.

The HTD team talks about the NBA Finals, the usefulness of statistics when discussing Muhammad Ali and the USMNT's poor start to the Copa America.

The HTD crew discusses the Warriors' return from the dead, are joined by Chris Herring to talk African-Americans and analytics and look at who is going to win the Stanley Cup.

The gang discusses the NBA Conference Finals, whether African-Americans talk about analytics with ESPN's Michael Wilbon and the goings-on at Rolland Garros.

Ben Lindbergh talks about taking over a baseball team with sabermetrics. This is a cross-post of a recent episode of What's The Point. Subscribe: fivethirtyeight.com/podcast

The HTD crew discusses the Western Conference Finals, concussions in women's sports and the centuries-old data set that helps us determine who really is the G.O.A.T in sumo.

The HTD crew discusses the Chicago Cubs, the WNBA stars who play overseas in the off-season and long shot candidates in sports and politics with 538's Harry Enten.

The HTD triptych discusses legendary Leicester City's EPL title win, the quality of quarterbacks in the NFL and the reasons behind the decline in Tommy John surgeries.

The HTD crew discusses how Steph Curry's injury impacts the Warriors' playoff hopes, the Cubs' fast start to the season and the Stanley Cup with the Wash Po's Neil Greenberg.

The HTD crew talks to Bill Barnwell about the mega-trade between the Rams and the Titans, discusses Kobe Bryant's fraught relationship with analytics and previews the NWSL.

Chad Matlin and Neil Paine look at the eye-popping numbers that describe the Warriors' record-breaking season, and ask if anyone has a chance of beating them in the playoffs.

The HTD crew discusses Jordan Spieth's historic collapse in the final round of the Masters, argues about the downfall of Sam Hinkie and previews this season's NHL playoffs.

The Hot Takedown crew get together to gab about UConn's fourth consecutive national championship and ask: Is this the end of an era?

The HTD crew discusses the NCAA men's final; Allison McCann joins to talk wage discrimination in women's soccer and Neil Paine delivers a special SigDig on the Warriors.

The HTD crew gabs about Syracuse's run to the final four in the men's and women's NCAA tournaments, the return of baseball and the Cricket World Cup with ESPN's Andrew Miller.

Sue Bird joins the HTD crew to discuss the data gap in women's sports, the madness of this year's NCAA tournament and the sexism row that's rocking the world of tennis.

The HTD team discuss NCAA tournament brackets, why Kansas is 538's favorite to win on the men's side and whether anyone has a hope in hell of beating UConn on the women's.

Shane Battier and Daryl Morey join HTD to discuss NBA box score stats, bracketology and what happened to the Rockets this season. Recorded in front of a live audience!

The Hot Takedown crew discuss why we shouldn't listen to the Warriors' critics, whether the NBA should move the three-point line back and if Gerrit Cole ought to be paid more.

The Hot Takedown crew discuss where it went wrong for Canadian hockey, how Daytona 500 races are getting closer and closer and why Anthony Davis's 59/20 game is so rare.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine and Kate Fagan discuss whether fans want parity in NCAA basketball, NBA All Star defense and why trading Mike Trout might be good for the Angels.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine and Kate Fagan discuss the supremacy of Denver's defense, Cam Newton's post-Super Bowl antics and the meteoric rise of little Leicester City.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine and Kate Fagan discuss Cam Newton's confidence, Peyton Manning's terrible season and the hot takery of the Super Bowl's off week.

Chadwick Matlin and Neil Paine discuss whether the Patriots' loss was Stephen Gostkowski's fault, why the Cavs fired David Blatt and whether match fixing is rampant in tennis.

Neil Paine and Kate Fagan discuss why Mike McCarthy should have gone for 2, whether bad baseball plays are dying out and the potential of LSU's Ben Simmons.

Chadwick Matlin and Neil Paine discuss Alabama's onside kick magic, the unpredictability of this year's race to the Super Bowl, and rate just how good Alex Ovechkin really is.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine, and Allison McCann discuss parity in the NFL playoffs, Ultimate Frisbee analytics, and conduct a statistical investigation into NBA Millennials.

Statman Neil Paine gives Kate Fagan and Chadwick Matlin a tour of basketball scoring stats, from points per game through usage percentage.

Special episode with NBA commissioner Adam Silver on the state of the draft, the Sixers tanking strategy, and whether he will ever ride a bear at the lottery.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine and Allison McCann discuss UConn's dominance, how Porzingis isn't like Dirk Nowitzki, and the College Football metric that doesn't make sense.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine and Allison McCann discuss the perfect Panthers, whether the Warriors can be the best NBA team of all time, and Leicester leading the EPL.

Chadwick Matlin, Neil Paine and Allison McCann discuss Kobe's retirement, the wackiness of College Football playoff scenarios, and the MLS playoffs.

The latest edition of Stat School with Professor (aka Stat Man) Neil Paine. This time Kate Fagan and Chadwick Matlin get a lesson in how we evaluate NFL running backs.

Chadwick Matlin and Nate Silver discuss the downfall of Peyton Manning, whether anyone can stop the Pats, and ask ESPN's Mike Goodman whether Chelsea are doomed.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss our college football rankings, how analytics are changing Gold Glove voting, and talk to soccer legend Julie Foudy.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the World Series turning points, Kobe's assessment he's the 200th best player in the NBA, and the Rugby World Cup.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin preview the World Series in our own special way. Plus a showdown between Chad and FiveThirtyEight's resident Royals fan.

Special guest Mike Pesca (Slate) joins Kate Fagan and Neil Paine to discuss our basketball projections, why so few NFL teams have winning records, and the brand new NWHL.

The latest edition of Stat School with Professor (aka Stat Man) Neil Paine. This time Kate Fagan and Chadwick Matlin get a lesson in how we evaluate quarterbacks.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine and Chadwick Matlin try to fix the Wild Card system, discuss the WNBA finals, and talk to Ben Morris about kicking!

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss how much an injured quarterback hurts their team; try to untangle the Nationals' season; and talk women's soccer.

Kate and Neil are on vacation, so Chadwick Matlin invites the boss, Nate Silver, in to discuss (and defend) the Elo rating system. Plus Allison McCann's Significant Digit.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin look for clues in the Patriots' home and road record, discuss Djokovic's U.S. Open win, and assess the Cespedes case for MVP.

Last episode of the U.S. Open mini-pod from FiveThirtyEight. Carl Bialik and Grantland's Brian Phillips discuss Roberta Vinci's upset of Serena Williams, and Djokovic-Federer.

A U.S. Open mini-pod from FiveThirtyEight. Today, Carl Bialik and the WSJ's Tom Perrotta discuss whether anyone can derail a Djokovic-Federer final or a Serena Grand Slam.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin preview the NFL season, challenge you to win Madden with Walt Hickey as your QB, and take a listen to our U.S. Open mini-podcast.

A U.S. Open mini-pod from FiveThirtyEight. Today, 9/5, Carl Bialik and Louisa Thomas count Serena Williams's comeback and discuss what's next for Rafael Nadal.

A U.S. Open mini-pod from FiveThirtyEight. Today, Carl Bialik and Louisa Thomas visit Novak Djokovic's bakery and worry about Serena Williams's serve.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the sorry state of American tennis, Darren Rovell's comments about Serena Williams, and whether analytics can help your fantasy football draft.

It's a new edition of stat school! Kate Fagan, Neil "Stat Man" Paine, and Chadwick Matlin look at the evolution of pitching stats through the ages.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the state of soccer analytics, preview the new Premier League season, and discuss the player tracking coming to the NFL.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin celebrate John Starks' 50th birthday by talking to the Knicks legend about his game, through the lends of advanced stats.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin look at Ronda Rousey's fighting dominance, introduce a new metric to measure MLB trades, and the stunning data on doping in track.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the blurring gender lines in sports, why no one wants to host the Olympics, and the U.S. men's soccer loss to Jamaica.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss Zack Greinke's scoreless inning streak, Elena Delle Donne's amazing basketball season, and brain data for baseball.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss three ways to measure batting: batting average, OPS (on-base plus slugging), wRC+ (Weighted Runs Created).

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss whether U.S. women's national soccer team is a dynasty, review NBA free agency and turn to the MLB All Star game.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the U.S. women's national team lineup, preview Wimbledon and discuss the weirdness of the NBA's free agency.

FiveThirtyEight has a new podcast! Here's part of the first episode of What's The Point -- small interviews about big data. Like what you hear? Find the full episode on iTunes

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the Women's World Cup; what analytics say about the NBA draft; and A-Rod's legacy.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the Blackhawks win; a big data scandal in baseball; and Lebron's dominance.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss whether Lebron can carry the Cavs; Serena Williams's 20th slam; and the start of the Women's World Cup.

A special episode with two interviews FiveThirtyEight's Allison McCann did recently previewing the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin on Sepp Blatter's resignation on the eve of the Women's World Cup; LeBron's chances in the NBA finals; and how the Astros got good.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss Rafael Nadal's rocky spring; our ELO rankings of every NBA team ever; and debate the question of whether star players always win championships.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the NBA conference finals; the NHL playoffs and why the Rangers win so many close games; and MLB's use of Statcast.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine, and Chadwick Matlin discuss the "deflategate" report, and pick a winner in our crowdsourcing project to fix the NBA draft and stop tanking.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine and Chadwick Matlin discuss Mayweather's win; round two of the NBA playoffs; and the advent of the new baseball stat DRA.

Kate Fagan, Neil Paine and Chadwick Matlin discuss the upcoming NFL draft; Floyd Mayweather's violent past; and Pablo Torre joins to follow up on why athletes go broke.

Kate Fagan, Chadwick Matlin and special guest Caitlin Kelly of The New Yorker discuss the NBA playoffs, the NBA draft system, and Tim Tebow's baffling return to the NFL.

Neil Paine, Kate Fagan and Chadwick Matlin discuss Jordan Spieth's dominant Master's performance; who has the edge for NBA MVP; and Nate Silver talks to a stats skeptic.

A special edition of Hot Takedown with Chadwick Matlin, Kate Fagin, and Allison McCann breaking down the UConn women's third consecutive national championship.

Neil Paine, Kate Fagan and Chadwick Matlin discuss Duke's NCAA championship; the Padres big trade; and why hockey teams play to not win.

Live from Indy, a special podcast with Chadwick Matlin, Nate Silver, and Jody Avirgan breaking down Wisconsin's win over Kentucky, and previewing Monday's NCAA men's final.

Chadwick Matlin, Kate Fagan and Neil Paine discuss the men's and women's brackets; the Cubs decision to keep Kris Bryant in the minors; and possible changes to the point after.

This week on Hot Takedown: Tom Izzo does it again, why the women's tournament isn't getting traction, and will the Thunder preemptively trade Kevin Durant?

Hot Takedown is a new sports podcast from FiveThirtyEight w/ Chadwick Matlin, Kate Fagan, and Neil Paine. This week: advice for your bracket; NFL free agency by the numbers; more.

Hot Takedown is a new sports podcast from FiveThirtyEight with Chad Matlin, Neil Paine, and Kate Fagin. Subscribe now to make sure you don't miss our first episode 3/17!

Hot Takedown is a new sports podcast from FiveThirtyEight with Chad Matlin, Neil Paine, and Kate Fagin. Subscribe now to make sure you don't miss our first episode 3/17!

Hot Takedown is a new sports podcast from FiveThirtyEight with Chad Matlin, Neil Paine and Kate Fagan. Subscribe now to make sure you don't miss our first episode on 3/17!