The host Thunderbolts (2-1) made the move to AIFA this year from the National Indoor Football League, where they played for two seasons. After opening the season with a 46-38 loss to the Mississippi Mudcats, coach Teddrick Keaton?s team has responded with two consecutive wins, including a 39-36 victory over league favorite Canton last week.

The Blackbirds enjoyed what Simpson described as a good week after the rout last week.

The team, which did not played a preseason contest, found itself overwhelmed by the more game-savvy Express.

“We?re still in the learning mode and still in the process of becoming a team,” Simpson said.

Throughout the week, the team has attempted to tighten up its shotgun offense to keep up in the speedy, athletically driven indoor game. The Blackbirds will also start a new quarterback, as Joe Urso takes over for Kenny Irby, who suffered a kidney bruise in last week?s loss and is out for tonight?s contest. The team also signed indoor football veteran Theron Davis this week as a backup.

“Joe?s doing well,” Simpson said. “He?s kind of taking the bull by the horn. He?s really taken the leadership role. I think Joe is going to have a good game.”

Urso is hoping the offense will improve against Lakeland after he combined with Irby to complete just 5 of 28 passes against Reading.

Lakeland, meanwhile, has a well-oiled passing offense. Quarterback Aso Pogi has connected on 64 percent of his passes for 632 yards and 15 touchdowns. His two favorite targets, receivers Octavius Day and A.J. Bennett, have combined for 48 catches, 438 yards and 12 touchdowns.

“Lakeland?s a veteran team with a lot of speed,” Simpson said.