Chris Mack is an expert at insulating his program from external forces.
Outside commentaries, criticisms and pressures rarely infiltrate Mack's Xavier men's basketball program.
But there comes a time for practically every college basketball program in America when the phrase "must win" becomes the reality and not just a cheap label pundits hurl at programs.
The slumping Musketeers, losers of five straight for the first time since January 1982, find themselves desperately close to "must win" territory, if not altogether there.
Mack conceded during a Tuesday press conference that Wednesday's visit from the Marquette University Golden Eagles (17-11, 8-8) is one Xavier needs to have, closing his remarks with an appeal to Musketeers fans.