Peyton Manning Discusses Glen Powell's Football Skills and 'Quarterback' Season 3

Peyton Manning stepped onto the red carpet at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, for the premiere of Hulu’s Chad Powers on September 25, blending his football expertise with a touch of Hollywood flair.

During the event, Manning reflected on coaching actor Glen Powell through his football scenes, offering a candid assessment of Powell's skills. “I wouldn’t book your ticket for the Super Bowl quite yet on Glen,” he remarked, acknowledging the actor's potential while emphasizing the need for a solid team around him. “He gets them in the playoffs. He needs some good linemen and good receivers to protect him back there and make some plays for him. But look, I’m a Glen fan. He went for it.”

As for Powell’s appearance, Manning was complimentary: “Glen looks beautiful. Whatever he’s wearing. I think people are going to really enjoy seeing him do it both ways, and we were honored he was a part of this.”

Powell takes on the role of Chad Powers in the series, which is inspired by a sketch featuring Manning’s brother, Eli, from his ESPN+ show, Eli’s Places. The project is produced by Peyton’s Omaha Productions.

“It’s more than a football show,” Manning explained. “It’s a comedy, it’s a redemption comeback story, but you do want the football part to look real.” He praised Powell for his dedication, noting that he asked insightful questions about the game. “He went far. A couple of things that Eli and I suggested he implemented, and I feel like we got that part right.”

The series originated from a viral sketch that Manning never anticipated would evolve into a full production. “When that sketch came out, nobody knew we were going to be here,” he said, reflecting on the unexpected journey.

Returning to the Rose Bowl stirred memories for Manning, who played his first college game there in 1994. “If you would’ve told me back in 1994 when I was a freshman here in my very first game that you’ll be back here 32 years later watching a show on Hulu about Chad Powers, I’d be like, ‘Whatever, get out of the way. You’re April Fool’s Day. I don’t believe you.’ So yeah, fun to be back. Special place, iconic place. I’m glad we’re here.”

Manning also provided an update on Quarterback, the Netflix docuseries produced by his team. “Yeah, we’re always talking about it,” he said regarding season 3. He expressed enthusiasm for showcasing diverse playing styles among quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes. “Even if they don’t win the Super Bowl, let other people fall in love with you by how you go about your business.”

When Powell learned of Manning's assessment regarding his playoff potential, he humorously challenged it: “Peyton said that? Peyton has no idea what he’s talking about.” He acknowledged Manning's coaching prowess, stating, “It’s hard to pull off being a quarterback. It really is. It’s one of the most technical positions in any sport out there.”

Powell emphasized the importance of support in the series’ message: “Surround yourself with people who are patient, elegant and graceful, who root for you and that don’t kick you while you’re down.”

Chad Powers premieres on Hulu on September 30.