Chad Powers Season 1 Episode 3 Ending Explained – How Chad Helped the Catfish Secure Their Comeback Win
Chad Powers continues to charm audiences with its mix of sports drama, humor, and redemption. Season 1 Episode 3, titled “3rd Quarter,” delivers the series’ most emotionally charged and triumphant episode yet. The Hulu original, co-created by Glen Powell and inspired by Eli Manning’s viral sketch, finally gives fans what they’ve been waiting for — Chad’s heroic moment on the field. Here’s how the episode unfolds, how Chad leads the Catfish to victory, and what the ending means for the rest of the season.
Chad Powers Season 1 Episode 3 Recap
The episode begins with Russ Holliday (Glen Powell) — living under his alter ego Chad Powers — reflecting on his past football failure during a lonely jog through the woods. Once a promising college quarterback, Russ’s career ended in disgrace after a humiliating Rose Bowl performance. Now, disguised as Chad, he’s a walk-on player desperate for redemption.
As the Catfish take on Ole Miss, Chad finds himself sidelined again, reduced to holding a urine cup for the starting quarterback, Gerry. Frustration brews both on and off the field as Ricky (Perry Mattfeld), the assistant coach and daughter of Coach Hudson, pushes for Chad to get a chance. When Gerry suffers an injury late in the game, the coach reluctantly sends Chad in — a decision that changes everything.
The Turning Point: Chad’s Risky Play
Once on the field, Chad initially follows Coach Hudson’s conservative strategy. But the team’s losing streak continues, and the energy in the stadium begins to fade. In a moment of courage and instinct, Chad defies orders and runs one of Ricky’s unapproved plays — a bold passing strategy her father previously dismissed.
The risk pays off. Chad launches a precision throw into the end zone, scoring the game-winning touchdown and delivering one of the most exhilarating moments of the season. The Catfish secure a miraculous victory over Ole Miss, reigniting the team’s spirit and uniting the players under a new sense of belief.
The Meaning Behind Chad’s Victory
Chad’s success represents more than just a sports win — it’s a symbolic triumph of second chances. For Russ, it’s redemption for his past mistakes and proof that he still has what it takes to lead. For Ricky, it’s validation that her strategies work and that she deserves recognition in a male-dominated sport. And for the Catfish, it’s the dawn of a new chapter — one fueled by trust, teamwork, and daring to break the rules.
However, the victory also raises the stakes. As Chad’s popularity grows, maintaining his double life becomes increasingly risky. His budding connection with Ricky hints at complications ahead, especially as his secret identity threatens to unravel.
Eli Manning’s Cameo and Meta Humor
Episode 3’s surprise cameo comes from Eli Manning, whose real-life viral “Chad Powers” sketch inspired the series. Manning appears as the coach of Ole Miss — his actual alma mater — in a hilarious meta moment. When Chad’s final throw seals the game, the camera cuts to Manning’s furious reaction as he shouts, “Who the F— is that guy?!”
The scene perfectly ties the fictional series back to its real-world origins. In a recent interview, Manning playfully commented on the show’s creation, saying:
“I thought Glen got better. We all saw him in Top Gun throwing — not his best performance. I was a little concerned when I saw that. I’m like, ‘Oh, we’re gonna have to spend so much money on football that this thing’s never gonna be successful.’”
It’s a clever blend of sports comedy and satire that gives long-time fans of both Manning and Powell something to laugh about.
Character Growth and Themes
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Episode 3 also marks significant character development for both Chad and Ricky. Chad’s decision to use Ricky’s play shows his trust in her vision and his willingness to take responsibility — something Russ never managed in his past life. Ricky’s triumph over her father’s doubts solidifies her as one of the most compelling supporting characters in the show.
Meanwhile, Coach Hudson (portrayed by Nick Offerman) undergoes a subtle transformation as well, realizing that innovation and trust can come from the most unexpected places — even a mysterious walk-on quarterback with a fake name.
What the Ending Means for the Season
The thrilling finale of Episode 3 sets the tone for what’s next. With Chad now the team’s hero, the media and fans are bound to start asking questions about his past. How long can Russ keep his real identity hidden before someone uncovers the truth?
The show has cleverly balanced heartfelt redemption arcs with sharp humor, making Chad Powers more than a typical sports comedy. Episode 3 feels like the moment the series fully embraces its emotional core — a story about identity, forgiveness, and the price of reinvention.
FAQs About Chad Powers Season 1 Episode 3
1. What is the title of Chad Powers Season 1 Episode 3?
The episode is titled “3rd Quarter.”
2. When did Chad Powers Season 1 Episode 3 release?
It premiered on October 7, 2025, on Hulu.
3. Who plays Chad Powers?
Glen Powell stars as Russ Holliday, who disguises himself as Chad Powers to get a second chance in football.
4. Did Eli Manning appear in the episode?
Yes, Eli Manning makes a hilarious cameo as Ole Miss’s coach, delivering one of the episode’s funniest lines.
5. What does Chad’s win mean for the story?
Chad’s victory redeems his character and strengthens his bond with Ricky, but it also risks exposing his secret identity.
Conclusion
Chad Powers Season 1 Episode 3 delivers everything fans hoped for — redemption, comedy, and a pulse-pounding finish. Through heartfelt storytelling and clever nods to its origins, the episode captures the spirit of perseverance and the thrill of the underdog. With Russ’s disguise now in the spotlight, the coming episodes promise more tension, humor, and hard-hitting emotion.
What did you think of Chad’s big moment on the field? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on InvestRecords.com!