Arch Manning Jests with ESPN Reporter Weeks After Public Apology

Texas quarterback Arch Manning playfully invited ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe to cover more of the Longhorns' games after their upset victory against Ole Miss. "I think you need to start doing our games more," Manning said following the 34-27 win in Austin, noting that the team is "3-0 with you this year." Rowe, who has been part of several newsworthy postgame interactions with the team this season, responded with a smile, stating, "Hey, we'll take it."

The lighthearted exchange marked a stark contrast to earlier in the season. Following Texas' upset of then-No. 1 Ohio State on September 12, Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian had an abrupt post-game interview with Rowe. This interaction later led to viral AI-generated fake content, including an image of Sarkisian striking Rowe. Manning had referenced these AI fakes in a previous conversation with reporters but subsequently issued a public apology to Rowe.

On Saturday, Manning's performance was a mix of triumphs and challenges. He threw two interceptions and was sacked twice, but also rushed for two touchdowns and threw for another. The Longhorns held a 10-point lead in the final two minutes before Ole Miss mounted a late comeback. The Rebels had a chance to tie the game after recovering an onside kick, but their final pass into the end zone was intercepted by Texas' Jelani McDonald.

Manning's performance helped quell recent criticism. Earlier in the season, consecutive losses to unranked teams had led to questions about his starting position, especially as backup KJ Lacey had been receiving more practice reps. However, with the win against Ole Miss, Manning appears to have solidified his role as the starter.

Raleek Brown contributed significantly with 157 rushing yards, including a 47-yard run that set up Manning's go-ahead touchdown. The Longhorns' defense also made crucial plays, including the game-ending interception. Despite a season-high 14 penalties for 121 yards, Texas managed to secure the victory, avoiding a third consecutive loss after holding a significant lead.

Ole Miss had erased a 24-3 halftime deficit. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss threw two touchdown passes to Horatio Fields, and Kam Franklin recovered a fumble for a touchdown. Manning experienced a rough patch in the second half, being sacked and briefly leaving the game for a medical check after being hit from the blind side. He returned on the subsequent series. Receiver Cam Coleman had a difficult game, dropping a potential touchdown pass and later leaving with a shoulder injury.