How has practice gone this week?

Lustig: "The players realize that we have not played up to our potential. Coach Bustle has done a great job of communicating to the team that we can play so much better at all three phases. The guys have responded with great effort and the tempo has been great in practice. They are not just going through the motions, they are working hard."

What can a big crowd do to help the team on Saturday?

Lustig: "It was unbelievably loud for the Southern and Kansas State games. The volume can make a huge difference. I know from an offensive and special teams standpoint that noise can create problems for the punt team and every time the offense gets into a huddle. When the fans get loud and get behind us, it helps our momentum and makes it hard on the opponent. We need a big crowd on Saturday."

What do you know about Florida Atlantic?

Lustig: "They are great team, although their record doesn't show it. They've lost two games by a combined four points, so they could easily be 3-2. Their other losses were at Nebraska and at South Carolina, two really good teams."

What impresses you about FAU?

Lustig: "They are not gimmicky, they are a sound, fundamental football team. They have great athletes (on defense) that have great speed. They fly to the football as good as anyone we've seen. Their team speed is comparable to LSU. They play hard and physical and never stop. I like the effort they play with."

What do the Cajuns have going for them this week?

Lustig: "Our experience in close games is a big positive. Our kids have shown the ability to succeed in close games. We've won three close games and there is something to be said about the mental outlook of the team."

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