PODCAST · sports
Open Strive Podcast
by Matt Craig
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.
Episodes
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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....
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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...
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S5: Ep 1 "We Are Back, Fr This Time!"
Join us as we unpack the hottest topics in sports right now! First, we break down the NFL Playoffs - key matchups, underdog stories, and our predictions for who's making it to the Super Bowl. Then, we turn to the NBA, where Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat are making waves. How far can they go…
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S4: Ep 5 "NBA Draft Recap w/ Faiz."
Open Strive's Matt Craig is back with another great episode for you all! Everyone welcome Faiz back to Open Strive Podcast! Matt and Faiz are breaking down the NBA draft. They will talk about the winners and losers of the draft. Matt explains why the Hornets will regret not drafting Scoot...
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S4: Ep 4 "They Call Him Freaky Z."
Open Strive's Matt Craig is back with another great episode for you all! Matt congratulates the Denver Nuggets on winning the NBA Championship and he crowns Nikola Jokic as the best player in the world. Matt is confused about what direction the Washington Wizards are going in with their recent...
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S4: Ep 3 "Heavy Is The Head That Wears The Crown."
Open Strive's Matt Craig is coming for all his naysayers! Matt loves great sports debates but he wants people to keep the same energy. Matt gives his NBA Finals predication and talks about some of his biggest sports heartbreaks. Matt talks about Shannon Sharpe leaving "Undisputed". Lately, Matt...
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S4: Ep 2 "What's Love Got To Do With It?"
Open Strive's Matt Craig pays homage to Tina Turner and Jim Brown. Matt breaks down the Denver Nuggets beating the Los Angles Lakers and the Nuggets being cry babies. Will the Celtics come back from a 0-3 deficit? Matt explains why the Heat are not like most 8th seeds. Matt loses a piece of his...
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S4: Ep 1 “THE REAL IS BACK 2.0.”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is BACK AND BETTER!! Matt breaks down the NBA playoffs and much more. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive
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S3: Ep 6 "Hit Em Up"
Open Strive is back with a brand new episode!! Tap in to hear Matt Craig give his Super Bowl reactions and all the moves happening in the NFL. Matt calls out some of his close friends for bad takes lately and he hold himself accountable. Matt explains what the levels are in the NBA and who…
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S3: Ep 5 “THE REAL IS BACK.”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is BACK AND BETTER!! Matt breaks down the NFL QB’s who are not looking like themselves. Give his early NFL Predictions. Matt explains why he picked the Eagles to be the best team in the NFC. Matt predicts the NBA Awards and he makes his NBA Finals picks. Follow Open…
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S3: Ep 4 “Stop Disrespecting Lamar Jackson”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is joined by returning guests Ethan Smith. Matt gives updates on the Brittney Griner case. Ethan explains why Josh Allen is the second best QB in the NFL. Matt and Ethan disagree on the Phoenix Suns championship window. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter...
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S3: Ep 3 “The Gang's All Here”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is joined by returning guests Faiz Khan, Xavier McKnight and Lawrence Vaughn. THE GANGS FINALLY ALL HERE. The crew breaks down where the best landing spot is for Donovan Mitchell. Faiz believes Steph Curry will be the next face of the NBA. Xavier explains why the New...
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S3: Ep 2 “Will KD Be Traded For The Western Conference All Stars Team?”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is joined by returning guest Faiz Khan. Faiz explains why Brooklyn is the best landing spot for Kyrie and KD. Matt breaks down the current Summer League games. Matt and Faiz get in a hated discussion about who’s the next face of the NBA. Follow Open Strive on IG…
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S3: Ep 1 “Day 1 Of NBA Free Agency”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is joined by returning guest Xavier McKnight. They break down Day 1 of the NBA Free Agency. Xavier explains what went wrong with the Brooklyn Nets. Matt tells you how everything could’ve been avoided. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 36 “I Wouldn’t Turn Down 30 Million Dollars Either Kyrie.”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig breaks down all the news around the NBA. Gives his input on why Kyrie stayed home. Matt gives updates on the Brittney Griner situation. He explains why he thinks KD is better than Curry and why people need to stop disrespecting KD. Matt wants Draymond to come up with…
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S2: Ep 35 “NBA Draft Review: Sam Presti Is Running A Ponzi Scheme.”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig is joined by returning guest Lawrence and Faiz. Matt explains how Sam Presti is running a ponzi scheme. Lawrence and Faiz pick their Way To Early ROTY. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 34 “Steph’s Crowning Moment”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig discuss the Warriors’ going up 3-2 against the Boston Celtics, Steph Brittney Griner being detain in Russia, Jayson Tatum letting you all down, his favorite 10 albums all time and a look ahead to Game 6. Matt knows where Deandre Ayton will be traded too. Follow Open…
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S2: Ep 33 “Celtics In 6.”
Open Strive’s Matt Craig discuss the Warriors’ series-tying win in Boston, Steph Curry’s incredible performance, Jaylen Brown shinning as Jaylon Tatum struggles, and a look ahead to Game 5. Matt defends Curry’s legacy and talks about a new podcast he is listening to. Follow Open Strive on IG...
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S2: Ep 32 “NBA Finals Preview: Warriors vs Celtics. Who You Got?”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Xavier McKnight and they are breaking down the NBA Finals. X explains why Steph Curry is not Top 10 All Time. Matt gives Kevin Durant his flowers. X believes the Saints should look into trading for Baker Mayfield. Follow Open Strive on IG...
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S2: Ep 31 “Is Steph Curry A Top 10 Player All Time?”
In this episode Matt drives in the conversation about Stephen Curry being a top 10 All Time NBA players. Matt gives his case on who believes is in the top 10 and where Curry ranks among those names. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 30 “ Magic Johnson Not Top 10 All Time? ”
n this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Ethan. They are breaking down the NBA Conference Finals. Ethan explains why he thinks Steph Curry will replace Magic Johnson in his Top 10 All Time if he wins another ring. Matt talks about the 2018 NBa Draft being the best since 2003z Follow Open...
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S2: Ep 29 “Jimmy Butler Is A Superstar”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Xavier McKnight. They talk about NBA playoffs. How far can Luka and Butler carry their teams? Xavier breaks down the closet racism by Nick Saban’s comment and the racism within the WWE. Matt looks ahead and tells us the games he is looking forward...
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S2: Ep 28 “James Harden In 3”
In this episode Matt talks about the playoffs as a whole. Breaks down the meltdown of James Harden. Matt tries to understand why James Harden is Most Hated. Matt explains why he picked Mavs in 7. Matt questions if Jordan Poole will be back with Golden State. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive…
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S2: Ep 27 “Did The NBA Voters Get Any Major Award Right?”
In this episode Matt talks about the playoffs as a whole. Breaks down how y’all would drag your favor nostalgic player. Explains how the Mavs and 76ers will win in 7. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 26 “Luka Is The Slovenian James Harden”
In this episode Matt talks about how similar Luka and James Harden playing styles are. Matt explains his current NBA playoff picks. Lastly, Matt explained why Jordan Poole and Tyrese Maxey are not the saviors for your franchise. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 25 “Can Giannis Antetokounmpo Win Back to Back Championship?”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Xavier. Matt and Xavier talks about the meltdown in Brooklyn. Xavier does not under what the Tennessee Titans are doing. AJ Brown makes the Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 24 “2022 NFL Mock Draft Full 1st Round”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Ethan. Matt allowed Ethan to break down the full first round of the draft. Ethan pulled off some trades and surprise picks. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 23 “Where Are The Los Angeles Lakers?”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Faiz. Matt believes Melo Ball is a better player than Darius Garland but Faiz couldn’t agree more. Matt and Faiz gave their prediction for the NBA Playoffs and NBA Awards. Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 22 “Keep My Wife’s Name Out Your F***** Mouth”
In this episode Matt talks Chris Rock vs Will Smith. Matt explains why Ja Morant is not a MVP. Matt breaks down the top 5 MVP players in the NBA. Matt tells us where Baker will play next season. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 21 “Quarterback Musical Chairs PT 2”
In this episode Matt is joined by a returning guest, Xavier McKnight. They discussed the big moves in the NFL. Matt and X ask themselves “WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?”. This may be the most active NFL Off Season in the history of the NFL. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG…
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S2: Ep 20 “Quarterback Musical Chairs”
In this episode Matt is joined by a returning guest, Xavier McKnight. They discussed the big moves in the NFL. Aaron Rodgers staying in Green Bay. Russ going to Denver. Russ dealing with criticism around his name. X named his Top 5 NBA MVP’s now. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG...
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S2: Ep 18 “Put Some Respect On My Name”
In this episode Matt is calling everybody to the pulpit. He is tried of the disrespect. Matt talk about the Lakers trading LeBron and AD. He reacts to the NBA All Star Weekend. Matt tells us why Lamar Jackson shouldn’t touch an NFL field till futher nothice. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open...
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S2: Ep 17 “James Harden Pulled Off The Fat Suit Again”
On this episode Matt is joined by Xavier and Faiz on this weeks episode. They broke down the NBA Trade Deadline. The winners and losers from the NBA trade deadline. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 16 “When It’s Grim, Be The Grim Reaper.”
In this episode Matt breaks down the GREATEST Divisional Weekend in NFL history. 4, that’s right 4 walk off game ending plays. Probably won’t ever happen again. NFL won this weekend. Matt explains all the great black coordinators in the playoffs that need to be Head Coaches tomorrow!!! Thank you...
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S2: Ep 15 “Who Will Make The 2022 NBA All Stars Roster?”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Lawrence(@original_vaughn/IG). They are giving their prediction for NBA All Stars roster. Lawrence breaks down the top Rookies in the NBA. Matt explains why the 76ers were never going trade Ben Simmons this season. Lawrence explains his current...
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S2: Ep 14 “They Are Who We Thought They Were”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Ethan Smith. They will talk about the crazy Wild Card weekend in the NFL. Ethan explains his stance on the Buffalo Bills. Matt and Ethan predicts who will go to the Conference Championship. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG...
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S2: Ep 13 "New Year, Same Takes"
In this episode Matt starts the year off with a solo episode. Matt talks about the Antonio Brown situation. He breaks down some of the biggest stories in the NFL. He will also give his Top NBA players for MVP and Rookie of the Year. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive…
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S2: Ep 12 “2021 NFL Midseason Award Predictions”
In this episode Matt is joined by a returning guest Scott Maggio. They are give their award prediction midway through the season. Matt and Scott had a hard time agreeing on a lot of the awards. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG @openstrive and Twitter @openstrive.
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S2: Ep 11 2021-22 NBA Preview: Can LeBron Win One More Ring?
In this episode Matt is joined by a first time guest Bert (IG/theonlyalvjh). They are breaking down the NBA after opening night. Bert has a surprising pick for MVP and DOTY. Matt believes LeBron only has one more ring in him. Lastly, we brought back your favorite segment. “House of Hot Takes.”...
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S2: Ep 10 “Are The Bills the New Kings of The AFC?”
In this episode Matt is joined by a reoccurring guest Ethan Smith. They are talking about the biggest surprises so far this season. Ethan calls Matt out for his Josh Allen’s slander. Matt wants the Texans to trade Deshaun Watson to Philly. Thank you for listening!! Follow Open Strive on IG...
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S2: Ep 9 “Do Y’all Even Enjoy Music Anymore?”
In this episode Matt gives his thoughts on “Donda” and “CLB”. Matt breaks down why Kanye is so hated by the public and why Drake is the biggest hit maker of our generation. Matt included some interesting takes on he music industry. How Drake and Kanye is received differently by the public. Thank...
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S2: Ep. 8 - AFC South Preview “Deshaun Watson’s Sweepstakes.”
In this episode Matt close out his NFL Preview by himself. Matt will break down the AFC South. He will give predictions on how the season will go for each team. Matt explained why Bill O’Brien was a hire hitman to sabotage the Houston Texans. Matt believes the Tennessee Titans have one of the…
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S2: Ep. 7 - AFC North Preview “There’s A New Sheriff In Town”
In this episode Matt is joined by first time guest Xavier McKnight (IG/@xmcknigh22). In this episode Matt and Xavier broke down the AFC North. They will give predictions on how the season will go for each team. Xavier explained why he is not a believer his Pittsburg Steelers and the Big Ben. Matt...
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S2: Ep. 6 - AFC West Preview “Patrick Mahomes vs Justin Herbert”
In this episode Matt is joined by returning guest Scott Maggio (IG/@scottmaggio). In this episode Matt and Scott broke down the AFC West. They will give predictions on how the season will go for each team. Scott explained why he is not a believer in Jon Gruden and the Las Vegas Raiders. Matt...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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.
HOSTED BY
Matt Craig
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Open Strive Podcast have?
Open Strive Podcast currently has 70 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Open Strive Podcast 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.
How often does Open Strive Podcast release new episodes?
Open Strive Podcast has 70 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Open Strive Podcast?
You can listen to Open Strive Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Open Strive Podcast?
Open Strive Podcast is created and hosted by Matt Craig.
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