ATLANTA – The Atlanta Legends continued to solidify their game plan against the San Antonio Commanders at Thursday’s practice.

The Legends are in for a physical battle against the Commanders. Both teams know each other well after matching up in training camp. The Commanders have a high-powered offense and can put up points quickly.

The Commanders rank third in The Alliance with 1,676 total yards. Quarterback Logan Woodside is the reigning Offensive Player of the Week and running back Kenneth Farrow II leads the league with 305 rushing yards.

The Atlanta Legends (2-3) continue a three-game home stand against the San Antonio Commanders this Sunday, March 17, at 4 p.m. ET at Georgia State Stadium. The game can be seen on the CBS Sports Network. Tickets to all Legends games are available here.

Thursday’s practice focused on quelling their offensive attack. The Legends spent portions of practice emphasizing communication and pace. There was a lot of chatter between the safeties and linebackers prior to the offensive snap.

The connectivity between both position groups will be important against the Commanders. Woodside likes to check in and out of plays. The Legends must handle the chess match presented by the Commanders’ offense.

The Legends also worked on third downs and short-yardage plays on Thursday. Last week, the Legends were 10-for-18 on third down. They want to recreate those numbers against the Commanders as it will impact time of possession and ball control.

In short-yardage situations, the Legends are looking to improve. Head coach Kevin Coyle aims to have more positive plays on first and second down. At practice, the Legends ran through a mix of different scenarios to simulate game situations.

At the end of practice, Coyle addressed the team. He was proud of the effort and energy over the last three days.

“They (Commanders) have talent on both sides of the ball,” Coyle said. “We are going to have play our best and complete game to win it. We are counting on all three phases to be strong. We are counting on the offense to move the ball and score when given the opportunity. On defense, we have to eliminate the big plays.”

Here is a list of news and notes from practice.

On the Mend: The Legends released an injury report after Thursday’s practice. QB Matt Simms (finger) and FS Ed Reynolds Jr. (groin) were limited at practice. DE Tavaris Barnes (shoulder), RB Lawrence Pittman (ankle), WR Ervin Philips (groin) and CB Damian Swann (ankle) did not practice.

“Tempo” Warriors: The Legends went through a series of quick-change situations at practice. The goal was to simulate play calls when a turnover was created. The offense worked on stringing together plays to capitalize on the momentum given.

Legends Talk: The Legends provided their outlook on the upcoming game. Several players look at it as another chance to stack wins in the second half of the season.

“It’s another opportunity to defend home field and defend our dirt. The main thing is to go 1-0 as it’s a new week. What happened last week is in the past. We’re excited as they are a good team. It’s a big challenge for us.” – Defensive back Louis Young

“It’s about being disciplined and trusting the game plan. We have to trust each other and play full speed from whistle to whistle.” – Defensive end J.T. Jones

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Jaylon Thompson covers the Atlanta Legends for The Alliance of American Football. Follow him on Twitter JaylonThompson.