First Take host Shea Cornette sharply criticized Arch Manning over his response to the controversy involving ESPN reporter Holly Rowe, saying the Texas quarterback’s comments were insensitive and immature.
Manning became embroiled in the fallout from Texas’ dramatic comeback victory over Ohio State on Saturday night.
After the game, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian declined an interview with ESPN’s Rowe, choosing instead to celebrate with his players.
The moment quickly spread online, generating memes and AI-created videos. One disturbing edit showed Sarkisian backhanding Rowe to the ground before placing both fists against his forehead and running off like a bull.
During a news conference Monday, Manning acknowledged that he had seen some of the online material surrounding the incident. He specifically referred to the violent AI video, which he said had caused him and reporters in the room to laugh.
Video of Manning’s remarks soon went viral, drawing widespread criticism over what many viewed as an insensitive reaction. He apologized Tuesday, and Rowe publicly accepted the apology.
Shea Cornette criticized Arch Manning for what she described as an ‘insensitive’ and ‘immature’ response
Cornette discussed the controversy on First Take alongside Stephen A. Smith after Manning apologized
Cornette revisited the issue on First Take, criticizing the 22-year-old quarterback for his handling of the situation and questioning why he did not deliver his apology on video.
‘Stephen A. and I learned about this yesterday, so I’ll give my quick take on it,’ Cornette said.
‘When I first heard Arch’s comments and watched that press conference, my immediate reaction was, “My goodness, how insensitive, how immature.” Quite frankly, how dare he say that, especially about Holly and the way he was laughing about it.’
‘As the day went on, I thought, “When you have that last name, play at this university and wear that responsibility every day, you have to know better.”’
‘Maybe that is unfair because of his age, his continued immaturity and everything he is dealing with at this stage of his life. But that is the reality of the situation that comes with it.’
‘He has apologized, and he had a conversation with Holly Rowe, which I love. I do wish the apology had been spoken and delivered on video rather than sent as a text.’
‘Nonetheless, we move forward. What I hope is that this becomes a very important learning experience for him.’
‘We don’t necessarily need to be laughing about a video that promotes violence, especially towards woman, and so Arch hopefully will do better.’
Arch Manning faced a huge backlash after his press conference on Monday
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian blew off a post-game interview with Holly Rowe on Saturday
Manning issued a statement on social media on Tuesday that read: ‘In my press conference yesterday, I made an insensitive comment about an AI video. There is nothing funny about it.
‘It’s easy to say I didn’t mean it, but I know my words and actions were hurtful to a lot of people. I do not take that lightly and am deeply sorry for that.
‘I specifically want to apologize to Holly Rowe for what she has personally had to deal with because of my comments. 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 responded with an Instagram story of her own accepting the apology.
‘Thank you Arch. I appreciate our conversation about this – which will remain private. Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another,’ Rowe said.
