Lorenzen-Pease trash talking puts Kentucky-Florida matchup in spotlight

Some trash talking between a player and his former coach has livened up the Kentucky-Florida football series, which the Gators have dominated for well over two decades. Former University of Kentucky quarterback Jared Lorenzen was quick to criticize Florida for hiring Brent Pease during the offseason. “Seriously, Brent Pease at Florida? He’s freaking crazy and was brutal at UK when I was there,” Lorenzen tweeted. Pease, who was the offensive coordinator at Kentucky from 2001-02, fired back at Lorenzen during a stop in Ocala in July.

“I coached Jared,” Pease said during a visit to the Ocala Gator Club this past summer. “Jared is one of those guys that was talking trash when I took this job. So that’s good for about two extra launch plays, trying to get 50 points on those guys when they come to campus.”

Pease came to Florida from Boise State. Florida hired Pease as its offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. He had been a member of the Boise State coaching staff since 2006.

The Florida Gators have controlled the Kentucky Wildcats since the mid-late 1980s. Kentucky hasn’t defeated Florida since 1986.

Pease’s Florida offense flourished last week, especially in the second half. Florida quarterback Jeff Driskel completed 14 of 20 passes for 219 yards and two touchdowns in Florida’s victory over Southeastern Conference rival Tennessee. Driskel also rushed for 81 yards. The Pease-coached Florida offense is averaging 409 yards and 28 points through three games.

Florida is 3-0 following the win on the road over Tennessee. The Gators have finished strong thus far in 2012, outscoring opponents 50-13 in the second half.

Kentucky (1-2) is reeling following a loss to in-state rival Western Kentucky.

Pease will have an opportunity to prove himself to Lorenzen and others when Florida hosts Kentucky in The Swamp on Saturday.