In a fresh twist on college football antics, Hulu's Chad Powers premiered on September 30, 2025, drawing immediate buzz from sports fans and comedy lovers alike. The series, inspired by a viral 2022 skit from Eli Manning's ESPN+ show Eli's Places, stars Glen Powell as the cocky quarterback Russ Holliday, who reinvents himself as the mustachioed alter ego Chad Powers after a career-ending scandal. Powell, riding high from his blockbuster roles, brings a sharp, self-aware edge to the character, transforming what could have been a one-note prank into a full-fledged underdog tale.
Indeed, the cast stands out as the show's real powerhouse. Perry Mattfeld, known for her breakout turns in In the Dark, plays a pivotal role that taps into her surprising football roots—she's married to a former NFL quarterback and cheered for USC back in the day. Her performance as the team's no-nonsense counterpart to Powell's chaos adds layers of grit and humor, making scenes crackle with unexpected chemistry. Then there's Eli Manning himself, not just the idea man but an executive producer alongside his brother Peyton through their Omaha Productions. Manning's deadpan charm from the original sketch infuses the series, though his on-screen cameos feel a tad restrained, almost like he's holding back to let the new blood shine.
However, the ensemble doesn't stop there. Steve Zahn brings his signature quirky intensity as a beleaguered coach, while Toby Huss and Clayne Crawford round out the Southern-fried supporting players, capturing the small-school desperation with wry authenticity. The plot zigs from tryouts to triumphs, poking fun at football's macho myths without ever fully committing to satire—it's more heartwarming romp than biting critique. Critics are already praising the quick pacing, though some early reviews note the prosthetics and wigs occasionally distract from the laughs.
Moreover, with eight episodes dropping weekly, Chad Powers arrives just as NFL season ramps up, blending real gridiron passion with scripted slapstick. Perry Mattfeld's star turn, in particular, hints at her versatility beyond drama, proving she's no mere sidekick. As the series unfolds, it raises questions about how celebrity pranks evolve into prime-time gold.