Texas coach Steve Sarkisian criticized for cutting off ESPN reporter after win

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian was accused of disrespecting ESPN reporter Holly Rowe after the Longhorns rallied for a 24-23 win over No. 1 Ohio State on Saturday night. In the post-game scramble, Sarkisian began shouting a chant and walked away before Rowe could ask her first question. The incident prompted several media figures to comment on social media, describing the behavior as unprofessional.

ESPN’s Madelyn Burke wrote that the action was “rude” toward a professional journalist, while sports media commentator Richard Deitsch called it “particularly bad” given the public praise coaches often receive. Other commentators expressed similar disapproval, noting that the coach’s conduct did not reflect well on the program.

A comparable interruption occurred at halftime when technical difficulties delayed an interview with Sarkisian. ESPN host Laura Rutledge later explained that the coach had waited patiently for the broadcast to resolve the issue and apologized for the missed opportunity.

The Longhorns, now 2-0 on the season, are scheduled to host UTSA on Sept. 19.