His statement is seen as an attempt to 'climb down' [='back away'] from the strong denial he made yesterday.
a 'climbing plant' [=a plant that attaches itself to something, such as a wall, as it grows up it]
The players 'climbed' into their uniforms [=put on their uniforms] and headed for the field.
(..) Sherman! Ah! Runaway bride! Stop them, you fools! Ah! Penny, Sherman, climb aboard. Whoo-hoo! They're getting away! Ah! Whoa! I got it. (..)2014 Mr. Peabody & Sherman