So, it seems a bit too soon to start talking about crunch games, or a season being defined.
But that is what it feels like for the Highlanders as they prepare for the Hurricanes at Forsyth Barr Stadium tonight.
They have had a far-from-perfect start to the season. Two losses from as many games - their only points have been courtesy of a bye.
Seasons are not won in March. But they can be lost at this time of year. Get too far down the table and the top six becomes a bridge too far.
In reality, the Highlanders can probably afford to lose tonight and still have a season to play for, but that will not be in the game plan.
The Highlanders were sloppy last week against the Cheetahs and paid for it on the scoreboard.
They have some very experienced players but this week has been about learning and concentrating on one novice lesson - treasuring the ball. They treated it like the proverbial hot potato last week and turned it over with alarming regularity.
''Last week we didn't show the patience expected at Super 15 level and we paid dearly for that. And that has been a big work-on for us this week,'' coach Jamie Joseph said.
''I think when you have young players, players who are exciting, players who want to play with the ball, you have to temper that with patience.''
The Highlanders were helter-skelter last week and paid for it. They can not afford to do that against the Hurricanes or it will be loss No 3.
Joseph has told them what he expects in no small measures and if they do not follow instructions, it could be a long training shift next week.
Ma'a Nonu will miss his second game in a row. He is still nursing a knee injury although he is expected back next week.
With Shaun Treeby out with a hamstring injury and Tamati Ellison still coming back from shoulder surgery, there are few options in the midfield.
Phil Burleigh comes into the second five-eighth position and youngster Jason Emery gets his first start at centre.
Emery is a player of promise but he has the tough task of marking All Black centre Conrad Smith.
After Lima Sopoaga's struggles last week, Colin Slade was the obvious replacement at first five-eighth, and how he moves and plays will have a big impact on the game.
In the pack, Elliot Dixon gets a start at No 8 and Jake Paringatai moves to the bench.
Jarrad Hoeata comes into the second row, with Josh Bekhuis having a rest, while Chris King moves into tighthead prop to play his 99th game of Super rugby.
Rugged Otago loose forward TJ Ioane comes on to the bench for his first taste of this level.
The Hurricanes have also had some struggles and could easily be winless. Their attack has been grinding rather than thrilling, while they have also coughed up the ball a tad too often.
Much may depend on the refereeing of Argentinian Francisco Pastrana, and whether his interpretations find favour with either team.