Podcast appearances and mentions of craig hoffman

Craig opens the show reacting to the Pacers' stunning blowout win over the Thunder in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, forcing a decisive Game 7 — the best two words in sports. Indiana led by 30 entering the fourth quarter, leaving no doubt as they bounced back in dominant fashion. Craig breaks down how the Pacers flipped the series back in their favor, what went wrong for the Thunder, and what to expect heading into the winner-take-all Game 7.

Craig welcomes on Josh Robbins of The Athletic to discuss his latest article on the state of the Washington Wizards rebuild and where the franchise is headed. With the 2025 NBA Draft approaching, they dive into what the Wizards might do with their trio of picks (6th, 18th, and 40th), the top names being linked to Washington, and whether any draft-night movement or trades could be on the horizon.

For today's edition of “Not My Beat,” Craig welcomes on Andrew Chernoff of Wish-TV Indianapolis to break down the Pacers' dominant Game 6 win over the Thunder in the NBA Finals. They discuss how Indiana got to this point in the series, what stood out in Game 6, and how the Pacers quickly shifted their focus to Game 7 instead of celebrating.

Craig welcomes on ESPN's Clinton Yates to discuss the bombshell news that broke earlier this week: the Los Angeles Lakers have been sold at a record $10 billion valuation to Dodgers owner Mark Walter. Craig and Clinton dive into what this historic sale means for the Lakers, the NBA at large, and how this could reshape the sports ownership landscape moving forward.

Craig welcomes on Mystics guard Brittney Sykes to discuss her strong start to the WNBA season. They dive into the expanded leadership role she's taken on this year, how she's adjusted to being the team's go-to scorer, and how the Mystics' talented rookie class has stepped up early. Sykes reflects on balancing veteran responsibilities while maintaining her aggressive style of play.

Craig Hoffman and Logan Paulson dive into the NFC East Offense Positional Group Rankings in an action-packed episode of the pod. The NFL Offseason dead period has arrived which means it's time for our Take Command annual tradition, the NFC East Positional Group Rankings! They rank the best QB's, Offensive line rooms, and RB, WE, & TE rooms in the division from 1 to 4 and explain why exactly some may be higher or lower than expected. Find out all that and more on this NFC East Offense Positional Group Rankings Edition of Take Command! 0:00 - NFC East 2025 Quarterback Rankings 23:07 - NFC East 2025 Offensive Line Rankings 38:13 - NFC East 2025 Skill Positions (RB, WR, & TE) Rankings

Hour 3 with Tobi Altizer: The Commanders' success wasn't luck / Craig Hoffman joins to preview the Commanders and talk Wizards NBA Draft / Jayden Daniels WILL NOT have a sophomore slump

Craig welcomes on Byron Kerr to break down the Nationals' ongoing free fall after dropping their 10th straight game, this time to the Rockies. They discuss what's gone wrong during the skid, how much blame falls on manager Davey Martinez, and whether his job could be in jeopardy. Plus, they evaluate the bigger picture of the Nationals' rebuild and what changes — if any — could be coming.

Craig braves the YouTube comments section, addressing some of the biggest items currently stirring the pot in Washington Commanders land. It's a candid response to fan reactions, controversies, and the pulse of Commanders Nation.

The Athletic's David Aldridge has released his annual NBA Draft Confidential, collecting anonymous thoughts from scouts, execs, and coaches across the league. Craig reads and reacts to the biggest takeaways from the piece and breaks down what it could mean for the Wizards ahead of next week's NBA Draft. Which players could be in play? What are the perceived strengths and weaknesses of this class? Craig shares who stands out as realistic — and smart — targets for Washington.

Craig opens the show reacting to the Nationals' 10th consecutive loss after falling 10-6 to the Rockies in Game 2 of their four-game set. With five of those losses coming against two of the worst teams in the NL, Craig breaks down where things have gone off the rails. Plus, he reacts to GM Mike Rizzo's comments from his appearance on The Junkies, where Rizzo defended Davey Martinez amidst “Fire Davey” chants at Nats Park and addressed the state of the team's ongoing rebuild.

Craig Hoffman and Logan Paulson dive into the latest Take Command Mailbag in an action-packed episode of the pod. They break down the likelihood of Jayden improving on his insane rookie performance and how opposing teams may adjust to Kliff's high-tempo offense in 2025, how Kliff Kingsbury and the Commanders offensive line/running backs can conquer the Eagles run defense along with how Deebo Samuel can impact the run game in his own right, and who they view as the most important non-Jayden Daniels Commander in 2025. Find out all that and more on this Mailbag Edition of Take Command! 0:00 - What Does The Commanders 2025 Season Look Like If Jayden Has No Sophomore Slump? 23:56 - How Commanders Can Solve Eagles Run Defense In 2025 And Beyond 38:37 - Who's The Most Important Non-Jayden Daniels Commander?

Craig responds to the backlash against Tyrese Haliburton after his scoreless performance in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. While critics called for him to be benched due to his calf injury and poor shooting night, Craig argues that Haliburton's pace-setting, game management, and leadership still made a positive difference—highlighting his +3 second-half plus-minus as proof of his value on the floor.

Kevin Durant is on the move again. Craig and Anthony react to reports that the 15-time All-Star is working with the Suns to facilitate a trade out of Phoenix. They explore the most likely—and most intriguing—landing spots for KD, what teams would need to give up to get him, and whether another title run is still in the cards for the future Hall of Famer.

It's Vibe Check Tuesday! Craig and Anthony dive into the key figures who will shape the Commanders' 2025 season outside of rookie QB Jayden Daniels. From offensive anchors like Laremy Tunsil and Terry McLaurin to defensive leaders Marshon Lattimore and Bobby Wagner—and even veteran tight end Zach Ertz—the crew breaks down who matters most and why.

Craig reacts to reports that the Washington Commanders are frustrated with the latest RFK Stadium developments. With the DC City Council requesting more time to review Mayor Bowser's stadium deal, Craig breaks down what this means for the team's hopes of returning to the RFK site and how political delays could derail momentum.

Craig and Anthony dive into the roster construction of the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder, analyzing how each franchise built its way to the NBA Finals. From smart drafting and savvy trades to player development and front office vision, they break down the paths both teams took to become championship contenders.

Craig and Anthony kick off the show reacting to Oklahoma City's clutch Game 4 win to even the NBA Finals at 2-2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander took over with a dominant 15-point fourth quarter to seal the victory. The duo also discusses the officiating, including the impact of veteran referee Scott Foster—though Craig argues his influence is being blown out of proportion.

Craig and Anthony react to the breaking news Sunday morning: the Orlando Magic have acquired Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in a blockbuster deal. Orlando sends Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and a pick swap to Memphis. The guys break down what the move means for both franchises and whether Orlando just made a win-now statement in the Eastern Conference.

Craig welcomes on ESPN NBA Reporter Tim Bontemps to react to the blockbuster trade sending Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. They also discuss potential landing spots for Kevin Durant as trade rumors swirl around the Suns star. Plus, Tim previews Game 5 of the NBA Finals, calling Game 4 a major missed opportunity for the Pacers after they controlled much of the game before letting it slip away late.

Craig poses the critical question: Have the Commanders done enough to help their defensive line? He and Anthony react to John Keim's recent article on Washington's run defense struggles and what's been done — or not done — to address them heading into the 2025 season. They break down personnel moves, scheme fits, and whether the current group is built to hold up in the trenches this fall.

Craig welcomes on Tobi Altizer, host of the Bustin' Loose Baseball podcast, to react to Davey Martinez's fiery postgame comments where he appeared to throw his players under the bus after the Nationals' seventh straight loss. Tobi shares his thoughts on what it means for the locker room and whether changes to the coaching staff could be on the horizon depending on how the team fares in a brutal upcoming stretch. Plus, some good news: the debut of top prospect Brady House brings a jolt of excitement to Nats fans.

AWadd takes us into The Richmond Commander on the show next as we talk about underrated players who could rise to be stars this season like Luke McCaffery. NFL Hits on the show next as we go around the league looking at each division and make picks for who the number one team will be in each division as we guess who will repeat. Craig Hoffman on the show with us next to talk more about Washington Commanders offseason as we evaluate the weapons on the team. Dude Food on the show next as AWadd has a new way of getting food recipes.

Craig welcomes on Jeff Rueter, senior writer at The Athletic covering global soccer, to discuss the current state of the U.S. Men's National Team. With the program at its lowest point in 25 years and just one year away from hosting the World Cup, Craig and Jeff debate whether there's still time to right the ship—and what it would take to do so.

Craig welcomes on Marc Kestecher, the voice of the NBA Finals on ESPN Radio, to preview Game 4 between the Thunder and Pacers. They dive into OKC's impressive adaptability and speculate on the adjustments and rotations the Thunder might deploy with only one day of rest as the Pacers' physicality continues to take a toll. They also examine the biggest X-factor behind Indiana's 2-1 series lead and discuss whether fans are tuning in despite the Finals featuring two small-market teams and emerging stars rather than the usual household names.

Craig welcomes on DC Defenders Head Coach Shannon Harris to preview tomorrow night's UFL Championship showdown against the Michigan Panthers. Coach Harris shares his mindset going into the biggest game of the season, what it'll take to bring home the title, and how the Defenders have prepared for this moment.

Craig welcomes on longtime friend Clinton Yates of ESPN's Clinton and Friends to preview Game 4 of the NBA Finals. They dive into Tyrese Haliburton's breakout performance and discuss why Clinton believes we still haven't seen his full potential. Clinton explains why Pascal Siakam is the true X-factor for the Pacers to win the series and breaks down what the Thunder need from Chet Holmgren if they want to mount a comeback and even the series.

Craig Hoffman and Logan Paulson dive into the Full Breakdown Of Commanders Minicamp in an action-packed episode of the pod. They breakdown who shined in camp at wide receiver from the likes of Noah Brown, Luke McCaffrey, Jaylin Lane, KJ Osborn, Chris Moore, Michael Strachan, Jacoby Jones, & Ja'Corey Brooks, who shined in camp on the O-Line from the likes of Josh Conerly, Andrew Wylie, Nick Allegretti, Trent Scott, Foster Sarell, Nate Herbig, & Michael Deiter, and Day 3's activities featuring the emphasis on soft skills like the Team Family BBQ and practice in front of hundreds of local high school coaches. Find out all that and more on this Commanders Minicamp Edition of Take Command! 0:00 - Breakdown Of Commanders Current Wide Receiver Room 23:07 - Breakdown Of Commanders Current Offensive Line Room 38:13 - Dan Quinn Continues To Drill Home The Power Of Soft Skills And Culture Building

Dan Quinn and Laremy Tunsil spoke to the Washington Commanders media after the third and final mandatory minicamp practice. Craig reacts to the six biggest takeaways from Quinn's presser and Tunsil's media scrum.

Craig braves the YouTube comments section, addressing some of the biggest items currently stirring the pot in Washington Commanders land. It's a candid response to fan reactions, controversies, and the pulse of Commanders Nation.

A viral video of Commanders WR Deebo Samuel sparked online debate about whether he's in shape. Craig addresses the internet trolls and those quick to criticize, reminding everyone that you can't judge a book by its cover. Just because a clip circulates online doesn't mean it tells the full story. Craig pushes back on the noise and defends Samuel, saying the real answers will come on the field — not on social media.

Craig breaks down Tyrese Haliburton's superstar performance in the Pacers' 116-107 Game 3 win over the Thunder in the NBA Finals. Haliburton finished with 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, but it was his aggressive mindset and ability to get downhill that changed the game. Craig explains how Haliburton's assertiveness opened up the offense, pressured the Thunder defense, and sparked Indiana's crucial victory.

Craig welcomes on Mo Egger of ESPN 1530 in Cincinnati to break down the surprising contract standoff between the Bengals and their first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart, who left mandatory minicamp amidst the dispute. Mo sides with Stewart and explains why the rookie's frustrations are valid. They also discuss the ongoing contract issues with veteran pass rusher Trey Hendrickson and what these disputes say about how the Bengals are handling business this offseason.

Dan Quinn, Bobby Wagner and Austin Ekeler spoke to the Washington Commanders media after day 2 of mandatory minicamp. Craig reacts to the six biggest takeaways from Quinn's presser and Wagner and Ekeler's media scrums.

Craig opens the show reacting to the biggest story from Day 2 of Commanders mandatory minicamp: wide receiver Noah Brown being carted off the field after a diving catch. Craig shares what he saw, how it unfolded, and reacts to Ben Standig's comments from the scene. Plus, Craig breaks down the rest of the top storylines from Day 2 of minicamp.

Craig welcomes on Washington Mystics rookie forward and reigning WNBA Rookie of the Month, Kiki Iriafen, to discuss how her first professional season is going. Kiki shares what the adjustment to the WNBA has been like, what it feels like to play against some of the players she grew up watching, and more from her rookie campaign so far.

Craig welcomes on JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington to break down his takeaways from Day 2 of Commanders minicamp. They open with the biggest news of the day — Noah Brown's injury — and examine the growing concern in the WR room as Terry McLaurin continues his contract holdout and Michael Gallup nurses a hamstring injury. JP shares why he's been impressed with rookie Luke McCaffrey and discusses whether the Commanders could make a significant addition before training camp kicks off next month.

Craig welcomes on NBC4's Mark Segraves, who made headlines after being thrown out of a DC Council meeting while covering the latest twists in the Commanders' pursuit of a new stadium at the RFK site. Craig and Segraves break down what happened, why RFK language is being stripped from the city budget, and whether the DC Council's actions are putting the Commanders' stadium deal — and a return to DC — at serious risk.

Craig Hoffman and Logan Paulson dive into the latest Take Command Mailbag in an action-packed episode of the pod. They break down who has the best chance to stick on the roster from the likes of Ben Sinnott, Colson Yankoff, Tyree Jackson, and Cole Turner, Terry McLaurin's worth contract-wise relative to the other top receiver contracts in the NFL, and how they view Croskey-Merritt's potential and skills in relation to the other backs the Commanders have. Find out all that and more on this Mailbag Edition of Take Command! 0:00 - Handicapping The Backup Tight End Competition 15:20 - What Is Terry McLaurin Worth? 27:00 - What Does Jacory Croskey-Merritt's Potential Breakout Mean For Rest Of RB Room?

After Commanders minicamp practice, Craig catches up with new defensive end Deatrich Wise. The two discuss Wise's transition from New England to Washington, what it means to bring a winning culture with him, how he's connecting with the other defensive linemen, and why he's excited about what's ahead for the Commanders this season.

Dan Quinn spoke to the Washington Commanders media after day 1 of mandatory minicamp. Craig reacts to the six biggest takeaways from Quinn's presser.

Craig is joined by Baltimore Sun sports reporter Taylor Lyons, who broke the story detailing the chaotic exits of Maryland basketball head coach Kevin Willard and Athletic Director Damon Evans. Lyons walks through what went down behind the scenes, shares the most revealing detail he uncovered, and explains what it all means for the Terps going forward. They also dive into the short-term instability and the long-term questions now facing Maryland athletics.

Craig is joined by Ben Standig of The Athletic to recap Day 1 of Commanders mandatory minicamp. They begin with the headline of the day: Terry McLaurin's continued absence as his contract situation lingers into minicamp. Why has this stretched this far, and what's next? Then, they shift to on-field observations, highlighting standout performances — including a strong showing from rookie RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who flashed a unique burst the team may need. They also discuss expectations for tight end Ben Sinnott in his second season.

Craig opens the show with his top takeaways from the first day of Commanders mandatory minicamp. While star wide receiver Terry McLaurin is notably absent, veterans Laremy Tunsil and Marshon Lattimore return after skipping OTAs. Craig breaks down who stood out on the field, including impressive showings from rookies Luke McCaffrey, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Ben Sinnott, and QB Jayden Daniels. What do these performances mean for the Commanders' early camp momentum? Craig has the answers.

Craig and Anthony react to Aryna Sabalenka's post-match comments following her French Open final loss to Coco Gauff. Craig defends Sabalenka's right to express her truth, even if the timing wasn't ideal, while Anthony argues her remarks came off as disrespectful and dismissive of Gauff's hard-fought win. They break down the match, the comments, and whether Sabalenka crossed a line or was simply being candid.

Craig and Anthony begin the show breaking down the Thunder's emphatic Game 2 win over the Pacers. After dropping Game 1, Oklahoma City responded with authority, using a massive 17-2 run in the second quarter to seize control and never look back. The guys dissect what changed for OKC, how their defensive intensity and ball movement flipped the script, and what this means heading into Game 3.

Craig, Anthony, and Lynnell react to the breaking news that the Green Bay Packers have released two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. With the Commanders still in need of defensive back help, the crew debates whether Washington should make a move for the star corner. They weigh the upside of adding an All-Pro talent against the risks of his recent injury history and high price tag. Is Alexander worth the gamble for a team looking to elevate its defense in 2025?

Craig welcomes Greg Matzek, Sports Director and Host for 620WTMJ & ESPN Milwaukee, to break down the Packers' surprising decision to release two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. Greg explains how contract issues and Alexander's injury history—missing 20 games over the last two seasons—played major roles in Green Bay's move. He also shares insight into Alexander's on-field demeanor, likening him to Jimmy Butler: when engaged, he's elite—but the buy-in has to be there.

Craig welcomes on NFL agent and salary cap analyst JI Halsell to break down what kind of contract Terry McLaurin could command as he seeks a new deal. With McLaurin skipping voluntary OTAs, Craig and JI discuss the wide receiver market, how Terry stacks up against other top WRs, and what factors the Commanders front office will need to consider when structuring an extension for their star pass catcher.

Craig and Anthony react to the bombshell Baltimore Sun report detailing the departures of Maryland basketball head coach Kevin Willard and athletic director Damon Evans. They dive into Willard's frustrations over NIL support and institutional commitment, why Evans' exit may have accelerated Willard's decision, and what it all means for the future of Maryland basketball. With leadership gone and trust fractured, Craig and Anthony debate what needs to happen next to turn the Terps into a true powerhouse again.