In a fresh twist on college football antics, Hulu's Chad Powers series launched on September 30, 2025, drawing immediate buzz for its blend of slapstick humor and insider sports satire. Starring Glen Powell as the disgraced quarterback Russ Holliday—who reinvents himself as the mustachioed Chad Powers—the show quickly establishes Powell's knack for playing cocky athletes with a hidden vulnerable streak. Indeed, it's Powell's energy that propels the pilot episodes, where Holliday's fall from grace feels all too believable in today's high-stakes sports world.
Adding layers to the ensemble is Perry Mattfeld, whose role as Ricky—a sharp-witted team manager—has already sparked talk of breakout potential. Mattfeld, known from her dramatic turns in shows like In the Dark, brings a surprising athletic edge here; her real-life ties to football, including family connections to the sport, make her performance ring authentic. However, it's not without its quirks—the character's banter sometimes veers into overly scripted territory, though Mattfeld's timing keeps it engaging. The cast rounds out with strong supporting turns from Steve Zahn as a beleaguered coach and Toby Huss adding his signature deadpan grit, creating a team dynamic that's equal parts chaotic and endearing.
At the heart of it all looms Eli Manning, the NFL legend whose 2022 ESPN+ sketch inspired the entire venture. As an executive producer alongside brother Peyton, Manning infuses Chad Powers with genuine football lore, from walk-on tryouts to the absurdities of college recruitment. The series, developed by Powell and Michael Waldron, clocks in at eight episodes, releasing two per week to build anticipation. Critics note how it pokes fun at the industry's excesses without fully committing to deeper critique, a choice that might limit its bite but ensures broad appeal.
Moreover, early viewership numbers suggest Hulu's gamble is paying off, with the premiere pulling in solid streams amid fall sports season. Yet, as the disguise-heavy plot thickens, one can't help but question if the comedy will sustain its momentum beyond the novelty.