Steve Sarkisian versus the ESPN broadcast was somehow the biggest on-field matchup Saturday at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas.
The Texas head coach blew off ESPN sideline reporter Laura Rutledge for a halftime interview with his team trailing 20-3. Rutledge later explained that Sarkisian had remained patient as the broadcast dealt with some technical issues, but he could not wait any longer.
While fans thought the veteran coach stormed off in frustration, Rutledge later clarified that ESPN “should be apologizing” to Sarkisian and not the other way around.
Rutledge’s colleague, Holly Rowe, probably didn’t feel the same way about her experience with Sarkisian after the Longhorns stormed back to win 24-23.
“Coach, this was one of the most…,” Rowe said before Sarkisian interrupted her.
“Texas fight! Hook ‘Em!” Sarkisian said to the camera before walking back to the locker room.
Steve Sarkisian being a bit of a pain for reporters tonight. Holly Rowe obviously upset by Sark blowing off the interview…
— Watch The Tape (@WatchTheTapeNFL) September 13, 2026
"TEXAS FIGHT, HOOKEM" pic.twitter.com/vQ8BvVUGqm
Rowe, one of ESPN’s most seasoned sideline reporters, could not hide the frustration from her face as Sarkisian turned his back on her.
Sarkisian may have been salty over his previous encounter with Rutledge and wanted to get some cheeky revenge on the “Worldwide Leader.”
The Texas coach may have also just been excited to celebrate the improbable win with the rest of his team. The Longhorns trailed the Buckeyes 23-3 heading into the fourth quarter and scored three touchdowns to topple No. 1 Ohio State in a comeback for the ages.
