Texas quarterback Arch Manning did a postgame interview with ESPN reporter Holly Rowe on Saturday, less than two weeks after apologizing for calling an AI-generated video that showed her being slapped “hilarious.”
Rowe spoke with Manning on the field at Neyland Stadium after No. 1 Texas held off a late comeback attempt by No. 14 Tennessee to win 20-17.
“I know this was a hard-fought win. This was dramatic down the stretch, but that long drive, you guys punch it in, you go over, and you’re hyping up your offensive line. How huge was that moment for you guys in this game?” Rowe asked.
“It was fun,” Manning said. “I thought they battled the whole time. Shout out to our defense. Colin Simmons, that’s a real player right there.”
Rowe also asked Manning about winning at the stadium where his uncle, Peyton Manning, built his college legend.
“He was terrific today. Your whole team was,” Rowe said. “But I know a lot of people think this is a special day for your family. You made your own history out on this field today. What was that like for you, Arch?”
“It’s not about me,” Manning responded. “I didn’t play very well, but our team played great. Defense played well. SEC road win, that’s what it’s all about.”
Manning completed 14 of 19 passes for 201 yards and threw an interception, while getting sacked six times as Texas managed just 262 total yards and was penalized 11 times for 115 yards. The Longhorns’ defense recorded 10 sacks, including a program record-tying five by Colin Simmons.
Rowe closed the interview by asking Manning about the encouragement he gave Tennessee quarterback Faizon Brandon after the final whistle.
“I just said keep going,” Manning said. “He’s a great player. I wish him all the best.”
“Thanks so much,” Rowe said. “Thank you. Appreciate it,” Manning responded.
Reaction on social media was mixed, with some viewers praising the cordial tone of the exchange given the backstory, while others said Manning’s demeanor seemed subdued since the controversy and his apology.
How the controversy started
The exchange drew extra scrutiny because of what happened after Texas’ 24-23 comeback win over Ohio State on Sept. 12. In that postgame interview, Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian cut off Rowe’s opening question, shouted “Texas fight” and “Hook ’em,” and walked away. An altered video then circulated online falsely depicting Sarkisian slapping Rowe.
Asked about social media edits of the moment during a press conference two days later, Manning brought up the fabricated clip himself.
“I saw an AI edit of Sark’s interview. Y’all seen that one? That’s a good one. Of him slapping Holly Rowe. It’s hilarious.”
Manning apologized the next day, saying there was “nothing funny about it” and that his comment had been hurtful.
“I specifically want to apologize to Holly Rowe for what she has personally had to deal with because of my comments,” Manning wrote. “I have a ton of respect for her and appreciate her showing me grace in this moment. I need to do better and will be more thoughtful going forward.”
Rowe publicly accepted the apology and said the two had spoken privately.
“Thank you Arch. I appreciate our conversation about this — which will remain private. Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another.”
Saturday’s interview appeared to reflect that reconciliation, with Rowe praising Manning’s performance and the two thanking each other before parting ways.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login