‘Jeopardy!’ Champ Austin Rogers Critical of New Host Mike Richards

One of the biggest “Jeopardy!” champs of all time has strong thoughts on the new hosts — especially the day-to-day guy, Mike Richards, … whom he clearly thinks might not have been the best pick.

We talked to Austin Rogers — who went on a major hot streak in 2017 — in NYC Wednesday, and got his two cents on the new faces of the iconic quiz trivia show … and he gave us the straight dope on their EP and Mayim Bialik taking the reigns post-Trebek.

Watch how he responded when we asked how he felt about the announcement — seems he doesn’t think MR was the most ideal way to go … but a decent option nonetheless.

Fact is — and as Austin pointed out to us — Mike has a lot of game show experience … and he was pretty damn good during his stint as guest host a few months ago. And, as far as Mayim goes — Austin says she certainly ticks a few boxes for what may or may not be a damage control move … in his eyes, anyway.

There’s some controversy with her getting the tap — she was a noted anti-vaxxer (one with a PhD, no less) … but has apparently changed her tune on the jab, and has said in recent months that she and her kids are, in fact, vaccinated against COVID-19. So … all good???

Anyway, Austin says regardless of how he feels … he’s just happy the show will continue — and hopes these 2 can carry on its storied legacy well enough. BTW, he gave us a rundown on his latest ventures — and it sounds like Austin’s about to go on a book tour for his new offering — “The Ultimate Book of Pub Quiz by the Smartest Guy in the Bar.”