Open Strive Podcast

Matt Craig
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Sports

Welcome to the Open Strive Podcast with Matt Craig. This podcast, which will be published weekly, will focus on all things sports via interviews and roundtable discussions. Open Strive provides the most creative, unique, informative and entertaining sport takes in all of the land.

  1. Jun 3

    NBA Finals Preview: Trust Matt Takes

    In this episode, I break down the biggest storylines around the league, including the fallout from Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, what the future holds for OKC, and why the NBA’s next generation is already taking over. I also discuss the growing excitement around the Spurs and their future with Wemby, react to the latest developments involving Chip, and preview the NBA Finals with my full series prediction. Outside of basketball, I dive into two major NFL moves—the Miles Garrett trade to the Rams and AJ Brown’s move to the Patriots—and what those deals could mean moving forward. To close things out, I highlight some positive stories from around the sports world, including Russell Wilson’s next chapter with CBS and Russell Westbrook’s investment in the future of Oklahoma City. Tune in and let me know where you agree, where you disagree, and who you think is bringing home the championship.

    56 min

  2. Apr 22

    Pressure Makes Diamonds: NBA Playoff Reality Check

    Open Strive Podcast returns with a full breakdown of the NBA playoffs. Matthew is joined by Faiz and KJ to react to the biggest surprises so far, discuss standout performances, and debate which teams are truly built for a championship run. From unexpected outcomes to bold predictions, the crew dives into what’s real—and what’s not—in this year’s postseason.

    1h 2m

  3. 09/02/2025

    S5: Ep 7. "NFC North Preview with Xavier McKnight"

    In this installment of Open Strive, host Matthew Craig teams up again with Xavier McKnight to preview the NFC North for the 2025 NFL season. With the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers all battling for supremacy, the division promises plenty of storylines and surprises. Matthew and Xavier analyze each team’s potential, explore key matchups, and share predictions that may challenge expectations about who will rise to the top of the NFC North.

    44 min

  4. 09/02/2025

    S5: Ep 6. "AFC West Preview with Xavier McKnight"

    In this episode of Open Strive, host Matthew Craig dives into the AFC West for the 2025 NFL season alongside guest Xavier McKnight. The division featuring the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Denver Broncos always delivers high drama, and this year is no different. Matthew and Xavier break down each team’s strengths, challenges, and outlook for the season, with a bold prediction from Xavier that may surprise listeners about who will finish ontop.

    52 min

  5. 03/18/2025

    S5: Ep 5. “NBA Playoff Picks, MVP Debates & NFL Free Agency Reactions with Xavier McKnight””

    In this episode, I break down the current NBA MVP ladder and debate whether SGA can truly be the face of the league. Who’s a bigger threat in the playoffs — Jokic or SGA? I also make my NBA Playoff and Conference Finals picks, discuss if the Lakers and Warriors can make a late push, and question whether the Phoenix Suns should blow up their current roster. On the NFL side, I dive into the most impactful free agency signings, the biggest losers so far, and what it all means for next season. Quick takes: Best landing spots for Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, will Travis Hunter become a superstar, who should be QB1 for the Steelers, is Coach Thibbs wrong for his minutes management, and a breakdown of the LeBron vs. Stephen A. Smith drama.

    1h 31m

  6. 02/20/2025

    S5: Ep 4 “Can I be the Face of the NBA?”

    In this episode, I dive into the Super Bowl and discuss Jalen Hurts’ trajectory as a top QB. I break down what’s wrong with the NBA All-Star Game and how it can be fixed, plus the big question, who’s the next face of the NBA? I also get into the Cam Ward vs. Shedeur Sanders debate, Kendrick Lamar’s latest takeover, and why Kanye West was way off with his recent Twitter rant. This one’s packed with sports, culture, and everything in between!

    1h 8m

  7. 02/08/2025

    S5: Ep 3 “NBA Trade Madness & Super Bowl Predictions with Xavier McKnight”

    In this episode, I’m joined by Xavier McKnight as we break down the chaos of the NBA trade deadline, including the Jimmy Butler trade and whether Luka would fit in Los Angeles. We also dive into Myles Garrett’s trade request, give our Super Bowl predictions, react to the NFL Awards, and discuss the latest Hall of Fame inductees. Don’t miss this action-packed episode filled with hot takes and bold predictions!

    1h 30m

  8. 02/06/2025

    S5: Ep 2 "Blockbusters Trades & Big Wins: Super Bowl Picks & Grammy Reactions"

    In this episode, we break down the massive trade sending Luka Doncic to a new team and what it means for Anthony Davis and the league. Then, we lock in our Super Bowl predictions, who’s taking home the Lombardi? Plus, we dive into the highs and surprises of the Grammy Awards. Tune in for all the latest in sports and music!

    36 min
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Trailer

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About

Welcome to the Open Strive Podcast with Matt Craig. This podcast, which will be published weekly, will focus on all things sports via interviews and roundtable discussions. Open Strive provides the most creative, unique, informative and entertaining sport takes in all of the land.

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Craig
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Matt Craig
  • Show Website
    Open Strive Podcast