Arch Manning Apologizes to Holly Rowe

Arch Manning, Texas quarterback, laughed during a Monday press conference while describing an AI video of coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN reporter Holly Rowe as "hilarious," with reporters in the room laughing along. The clip spoofed Sarkisian's real postgame walk-off after Texas's 24-23 comeback from 20 points down against then-No. 1 Ohio State, when he shouted "Let's go Texas fight! Hook 'em!" and left. The AI version showed Sarkisian backhand-slapping Rowe to the ground then running off like a bull. On Manning posted on Instagram Story that the comment was insensitive, there is nothing funny about it, his words were hurtful, he apologized specifically to Rowe, and he will be more thoughtful. Rowe replied that they spoke privately, apology accepted, and they move forward with respect and kindness. What is contested: Whether laughing at the AI meme warranted apology. Christine Brennan called the moment revealing and disgusting. LeSean McCoy said on the Speakeasy Podcast he would not fault the young kid for finding AI edits funny. Cindy Brunson criticized the laughing reporters; Rowe thanked her. Reporter Evan Vieth also apologized for promoting Manning's reaction.