One of Lineen's five changes is Sean Marsden who returns from a series of injuries to fill the full-back slot and the coach tipped the player to play a key role against the Italians.
A bonus-point win will set up a group decider against English side Saracens at Hughenden next weekend and in today's Daily Record, Lineen said: "The fact we have made so many changes will make us even more potent because the guys brought in, such as Sean, will have extra incentive to perform.
"They will be desperate to prove to me they should also be in the team to take on Saracens and indeed this is a massive opportunity for them. It is not very often a Scottish side goes overseas as favourites but there is no getting away with that situation.
"This game will be as much about our mental fitness as our physical skill and ability. It is a massive occasion because so much rests on it. The prospect of a knock-out type encounter with Saracens is absolutely mouth-watering."
On the return of Marsden in place of Colin Gregor, Lineen added: "It is great to see him back in the fold because he is such a clever and intelligent operator.
"He's been through a great deal of frustration over the past few months and he'll be champing at the bit to make a big statement. I expect him to do that."
In addition to Marsden, Scott Barrow fills in for the resting Andy Henderson at centre and scrum-half Sam Pinder ousts veteran Graeme Beveridge.
Up front Andy Newman replaces Dan Turner at lock as flanker Steve Swindall takes over from Andy Wilson.