Steve Sarkisian’s celebration after Texas’ stunning 24-23 comeback over No. 1 Ohio State on Saturday included an awkward moment with ESPN’s Holly Rowe.
The Longhorns erased a 20-point deficit in the fourth quarter to stun the Buckeyes at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, completing one of the biggest comebacks in program history.
As the stadium still celebrated the dramatic victory, Rowe attempted a traditional postgame interview with Sarkisian. But the Texas coach barely let it begin before turning back to his team.
Sarkisian shouted, “Texas fight, hook ’em,” then walked away to celebrate with the Longhorns. Rowe was left standing behind him, creating an awkward scene that quickly spread across social media.
Steve Sarkisian being a bit of a pain for reporters tonight. Holly Rowe obviously upset by Sark blowing off the interview…
"TEXAS FIGHT, HOOKEM" pic.twitter.com/vQ8BvVUGqm
— Watch The Tape (@WatchTheTapeNFL) September 13, 2026
The moment stood out because Sarkisian had already been involved in an unusual interaction with ESPN earlier in the game. A planned halftime interview was disrupted by technical difficulties, and ESPN’s Laura Rutledge later explained that Sarkisian had waited patiently before ultimately leaving. She said ESPN owed him an apology.
Steve Sarkisian when Laura Rutledge wants to interview him vs. when Holly Rowe wants to interview him. pic.twitter.com/518GWgg3Gv
— Chad Fisher DNP (@ChadFisher) September 13, 2026
That context added another layer to the postgame moment, though it remains unclear whether the two incidents were connected.
Regardless, Sarkisian’s decision to skip a traditional postgame interview became an unexpected storyline following one of the biggest wins of his Texas tenure. While some criticized the coach for appearing to dismiss Rowe, others understood his desire to immediately celebrate an emotional victory with his players and fans.
