Eli Manning Warns Arch Manning After Holly Rowe Controversy: ‘The Media Isn’t Your Pal’

Eli Manning knows the attention that comes with being a Manning quarterback. During 16 seasons in New York, he learned that even a casual comment could quickly become a much bigger story.

His nephew Arch Manning is now learning the same lesson in college football. Texas is 3-0 and ranked No. 1, putting more attention on every answer from its young quarterback.

Eli Manning spoke with Front Office Sports about the situation involving Arch and ESPN reporter Holly Rowe. He said he had not discussed the controversy with Arch, but he believes his nephew must learn how to handle the media through experience.

“You feel like [the media’s] your pal, you relax with them a little bit, you try to be funny, and then they can take it and run,” Manning said. He added that Arch must learn when he can relax and when he needs to be more careful.

The warning relates directly to what happened after Texas beat Ohio State 24-23 on September 12. A fake AI video circulated that appeared to show Steve Sarkisian slapping Rowe. Arch later called the clip “hilarious,” which brought heavy criticism.

New York Giants, Eli Manning — Feb 2, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; NFC coach Eli Manning reacts after the 2025 Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Arch apologized to Rowe and said he understood that his comments were hurtful. Rowe accepted the apology after they spoke privately.

Arch Manning Is Learning Under a Much Bigger Spotlight

Eli Manning’s warning matters more as Arch’s profile continues to grow. He is no longer just a young quarterback trying to find his place at Texas.

The Texas Longhorns are ranked No. 1 after their comeback win over Ohio State. Arch has also become one of the most recognizable players in college football. He followed the Ohio State win with two touchdown passes in a 30-6 victory over UTSA.

"He's Not on Netflix All Night": Inside Arch Manning's Relentless Preparation for 2026 — “He’s Not on Netflix All Night”: Inside Arch Manning’s Relentless Preparation for 2026
(Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images)

Rowe is scheduled to work on the sideline when Texas plays Tennessee on September 26. Texas officials expect normal interviews to continue despite the recent controversy. That could put Arch in the same situation his uncle warned him about.

The cameras and questions will remain part of the job. After one public lesson, Arch now understands how quickly a friendly interview can become serious. Eli learned that lesson during his career, and Arch is now learning it too.

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