Rory Darge says Scotland can handle the intense pressure as they prepare for Saturday’s Six Nations clash against Ireland with a chance to win the title.
The Scots could be crowned champions for the first time in the Six Nations era if France drop points at home to England in the last of three games on March 14.
Scotland lost their opening match in Italy but Gregor Townsend’s men bounced back to beat England and Wales before ending France’s hopes of a Grand Slam with a stunning 50-40 win at the weekend.
Defending champions France are level with Scotland on 16 points at the top of the table heading into the final round and will know what they need to do when they kick off at the Stade de France.
“Our backs were against the wall after Rome,” said back-row forward Darge.
“I think Sione (Tuipulotu, the Scotland captain) had said in the press and to the group that you can’t expect to lose two games and still be in the mix towards the end of the campaign.
“So for a while now it’s been win or you’re not going to be in with a shout. Obviously to be in with any sort of chance this weekend, we’ll have to win.
“It’s massively exciting, no getting away from it.”
Ireland, who have an outside chance of being crowned Six Nations champions, and Scotland will be competing for the Triple Crown when they face each other at Dublin’s Lansdowne Road.
Scotland have not won in Dublin since 2010.
“I’ve not beaten Ireland before, they’re a tough team to beat and they’ve been right up there as one of the best teams in the world,” said Darge.
“Obviously we’re fully aware of the challenge that lies ahead. Ireland are an outstanding team and our record against them hasn’t been great so we know it’s going to be difficult, but we’ve got to back ourselves.”
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