Why Oklahoma QB Caleb Williams did not have postgame interview

Oklahoma fans waited with anticipation for Caleb Williams’ postgame interview after Saturday’s 55-48 win over Texas, but it never came. ABC Sideline reporter Holly Rowe addressed the glaring exclusion, explaining why the young star was denied his shining moment.

“Dear viewers, please know I am always working for you,” Rowe posted on social media following the game. “I asked to interview Caleb Williams postgame and Lincoln Riley said no.”

The decision by Lincoln Riley to deny media access after the Red River Rivalry will certainly bring controversy over the coming days. Rowe provided her input on the situation, criticizing the decision.

“That kid deserved this stage and this opportunity,” said Rowe. “I actually apologized to Caleb who expected to be interviewed”

The likely reason for Riley’s denial lies within the storyline of the game. Williams replaced preseason Heisman favorite Spencer Rattler at halftime of Saturday’s game and led a massive comeback. The unavoidable tension beyond this point did not need a public stage.

More about Caleb Williams

Caleb Williams arrived at Oklahoma as the No. 1 player in the 2021 On300 rankings. He expected to sit behind former five-star prospect Spencer Rattler for one season before taking over the reins of Lincoln Riley’s offense. As Rattler’s struggles have grown throughout the year, Williams has seen the field more than expected.

On Saturday, Williams took over for the longest stretch so far. After an impressive drive in the second quarter, he entered the second half as the first-team quarterback and led the team on a historic comeback.

Holly Rowe said that Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley made the quarterback switch due to “turnover related” issues. Rattler did not look his best in the first half, leading to Williams coming in a couple of times late in the half. Texas led Oklahoma 38-20 at halftime.

On Saturday, Williams finished 16-for-25 with 212 passing yards and two touchdowns. He added four carries for 88 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground.

Lincoln Riley’s postgame comments

After the game, Lincoln Riley commented on the switch and Spencer Rattler, who entered the season as the Heisman favorite.

“Aww, he just made some plays,” Riley told ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe. “It was a tough decision. And honestly, you want to know something about our team. Spencer comes back in there and get a two-point conversion that we don’t win without. So that’s what it’s all about.”