He was asked by a reporter if he traded “angry texts with” Livingstone. Manning said no; he actually tried to call the wide receiver, who is from North Texas, during a recent trip to the Dallas area. But the two weren’t able to connect, he said.
“I was a little surprised (about Livingstone transferring),” Manning said. “Parker’s a good guy, he’s got a good family. Obviously we were roommates so, wish him all the best.”
But Manning made it clear that he doesn’t exactly endorse a move to the Sooners, one of Texas’ chief rivals. Livingstone committed to OU in January after catching 29 balls for 516 yards and six touchdowns for Texas this past season.
“Can’t say I would have done the same thing, but wish him all the best,” Manning said with a smile. He was then asked “all the best?”
“Except when we play them,” Manning replied.
Texas will face Oklahoma on Oct. 10 in Dallas. This year is expected to be a big one for UT and Manning, who is an early Heisman Trophy favorite after passing for 3,163 yards and 26 touchdowns while running for 399 yards and 10 scores.
Oklahoma made the College Football Playoff last season while Texas missed that tournament for the first time in three years.