LOU HOLTZ ON RICH RODRIGUEZ: “HITLER WAS A GREAT LEADER, TOO”

For the second time in less than a week, ESPN analyst Lou Holtz has apologized for comments he made on the air. This time, the comments were more egregious and the fallout will be more severe.During halftime of today’s Georgia Tech-Clemson game, Holtz gave an awkward apology, never saying what he was apologizing for other than that he had made comments about Michigan Coach Rich Rodriguez. So what were those comments?On Friday night, Holtz said, “Ya know, Hitler was a great leader too.” When Rece Davis tried to bail Holtz out by telling him that he meant to say Hitler was a bad leader, Holtz agreed.But the bottom line is, Holtz made a reference to Hitler, while working for ESPN. And ESPN previously suspended Jemele Hill for a Hitler reference. So I assume Holtz will be suspended, too. Right now, though, he’s still on the air.UPDATE: ESPN has forwarded me the following statement from Holtz:"Last night while trying to make a point about leadership, I made an unfortunate reference. It was a mistake and I sincerely apologize.At the time, I tried to clarify my remarks. I’m not sure I adequately did so.I appreciate your understanding.”ESPN does not plan to suspend Holtz.