Ep 5. Machete Charge

Spencer Strasmore is a troubled ex-NFL player-turned-financial manager on the hit show Ballers. In season one, episode five, entitled Machete Charge, Spencer tries to help Vernon Littlefield, a talented young football player who just signed a new contract with the Dallas Cowboys.

Vernon is worried about letting his family down, as they have become increasingly reliant on him financially. He turns to Spencer for advice, hoping he can help ease his anxiety. Spencer suggests Vernon invest in a big project, a new medical marijuana dispensary, that will earn him a lot of money over time. Vernon is hesitant at first but eventually agrees.

Meanwhile, Spencer also deals with getting Ricky Jerret, a former rival of Spencer's, signed to the same team as Vernon. Spencer tries to convince the team's owner to sign Ricky, but the owner is hesitant due to Ricky's past behavior on and off the field. Spencer is able to persuade the owner, and Ricky officially joins the team.

Throughout the episode, Spencer's personal life is also explored; he's attempting to win back his ex-girlfriend, and it's clear that he's still dealing with a lot of emotional baggage from his past.

As the episode comes to a close, Spencer's investment for Vernon in the medical marijuana dispensary hits a snag; the dispensary is raided by the police. Vernon panics, believing that his money is gone and he'll never be able to support his family. Spencer attempts to reassure him that he has a plan, and that he'll figure everything out.

Overall, Ballers' season one, episode five Machete Charge provides a glimpse into Spencer's life, both as a financial manager and as a person. The episode explores themes of financial stability, loyalty, and the importance of second chances. The storyline featuring Vernon highlights the pressures that pro athletes face both on and off the field, and provides an interesting commentary on the issue of athletes investing their money in potentially risky ventures.