Texas quarterback Arch Manning gave a postgame interview with ESPN reporter Holly Rowe on Saturday, less than two weeks after apologizing for calling an AI-generated video that depicted her being slapped «hilarious.» The exchange came after No. 1 Texas held off a late comeback attempt by No. 14 Tennessee for a 20-17 victory at Neyland Stadium.
Rowe opened the interview by asking Manning about a long scoring drive in which he celebrated with his offensive line. «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 then asked about the significance of winning at the stadium where his uncle, Peyton Manning, became a college football legend. «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 an interception. He was sacked six times as Texas finished with just 262 total yards and committed 11 penalties for 115 yards. The Longhorns' defense recorded 10 sacks, including a program record-tying five by Simmons. Rowe closed by asking Manning about the encouragement he offered Tennessee quarterback Faizon Brandon after the game. «I just said keep going,» Manning said. «He's a great player. I wish him all the best.»
The interview drew mixed reactions on social media. Some praised the cordial nature of the exchange despite the context, while others expressed concern that Manning's personality appeared depleted after the controversy and subsequent apology.
The exchange attracted additional attention because of the controversy that followed Texas' dramatic 24-23 comeback win over Ohio State on Sept. 12. After that game, Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian interrupted Rowe's opening question, shouted «Texas fight» and «Hook 'em,» and walked away from the interview. An altered video subsequently circulated on social media that falsely showed Sarkisian slapping Rowe.
When Manning was asked about social media edits during a press conference two days later, he brought up the fabricated clip. «I saw an AI edit of Sark's interview,» Manning said. «Y'all seen that one? That's a good one. Of him slapping Holly Rowe. It's hilarious.»
Manning apologized the following day, acknowledging that 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 revealed that she and Manning had spoken privately. «Thank you Arch,» Rowe wrote. «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 sentiment, with Rowe praising Manning and the quarterback thanking her before they parted ways.