ESPN Host Calls Arch Manning's Reaction to AI Video a 'Strong Learning Lesson'

ESPN host Shae Cornette has urged Texas quarterback Arch Manning to take a "strong learning lesson" after his reaction to an AI-generated video that depicted head coach Steve Sarkisian slapping reporter Holly Rowe.

Manning faced criticism after he smiled and laughed during a press conference when discussing the video, which was created based on Sarkisian's postgame interview following Texas's win over Ohio State. In the interview, Sarkisian had cut short his interaction with Rowe to celebrate with his team.

"When I first had heard Arch’s comments and watched that press conference, my initial reaction was, ‘My goodness, how insensitive, how immature,'" Cornette said on "First Take." "And kind of, quite frankly, like, how dare he say that, especially about Holly and the way he was laughing about it."

Cornette acknowledged Manning's age and immaturity but stressed the responsibility that comes with his last name and playing for a prominent university. "When you have this last name and you play at this university, and you wear that on your sleeve every day, you have to know better," she stated.

Manning subsequently issued a written apology via Instagram Story, acknowledging his comment was "insensitive" and "hurtful." He specifically apologized to Rowe for the personal impact of his words and stated he would "be more thoughtful going forward." Rowe accepted the apology, stating on social media that they would "move forward with respect and kindness for one another."

Cornette expressed a preference for a vocal or video apology over a text-based one but recognized the importance of the apology itself. "Now, I do wish his apology was vocal, was on video as opposed to in text. But nonetheless, now we move forward," Cornette said. "But what I do hope is, obviously, this was a very strong learning lesson for him. You don’t necessarily need to be laughing about a video that promotes violence, especially towards women. And so Arch hopefully will do better."

Sarkisian's original postgame interview, which sparked the AI-generated video controversy, saw him abruptly end his conversation with Rowe to exclaim, "That’s called Texas fight! That’s called Texas fight! Hook ’em!" before walking away toward his celebrating team, leaving Rowe visibly frustrated.

The incident occurred as the No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns prepare to host UTSA on Saturday night.