Story perspectives

Arch Manning Apologizes After Holly Rowe AI-Joke Backlash

By Drooid · Sep 17, 2026, 10:58 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Arch Manning posted a Tuesday Instagram apology, saying his AI-video joke about slapping Holly Rowe was hurtful.
Holly Rowe responded on social media that she accepted Manning’s apology and appreciated his respect.
Steve Sarkisian said he should have handled his postgame interview better, blaming ESPN technical problems and a desire to celebrate.
Texas rose to No. 1 in the Associated Press poll after its 24-23 comeback win over Ohio State.

History

Historical Context

In January 2006 the Texas Longhorns beat USC 41-38 in the Rose Bowl, delivering Texas’s 800th win and a record-setting 467 yards by quarterback Vince Young. The game’s 21.7% household TV rating and ESPN broadcast glitches sparked a media frenzy that still shapes how digital platforms amplify athletes’ statements. Arch Manning’s Instagram apology and Steve Sarkisian’s blame of ESPN errors echo that precedent.

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Story summary

Arch Manning posted a Tuesday Instagram apology, saying his AI-video joke about slapping Holly Rowe was hurtful.
Holly Rowe responded on social media that she accepted Manning’s apology and appreciated his respect.
Steve Sarkisian said he should have handled his postgame interview better, blaming ESPN technical problems and a desire to celebrate.
Texas rose to No. 1 in the Associated Press poll after its 24-23 comeback win over Ohio State.

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