Cowboys vs. Falcons: Asante Samuel says Atlanta is playing like a champion

Asante Samuel doesn't care if the Atlanta Falcons don't get the respect perhaps deserving of an 8-0 team, the only undefeated squad in the NFL. The Falcons won a close game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night to extend the winning streak, but with some their defensive stats, it calls into question whether the Falcons have been more lucky than good.

All that Samuel and the Falcons seem to be concerned with are the results. Halfway through the regular season schedule, Atlanta is unscathed and boasts the best record in franchise history. Quarterback Matt Ryan is a legitimate MVP candidate, this after early questions as to whether he could lead the team away from the Georgia Dome and through a playoff run.

The questions about the playoffs are still there. Some experts believe more in teams like the Packers, Bears and 49ers. Here's Samuel on the Falcons' confidence and leadership:

"We've got veteran leadership over here. It's how we approach the game every day. We practice hard, we play hard. We want to win. We want to make the city proud. It means a lot to us.

"We step on the practice field as a champion. That's what we believe in our hearts: we are champions. And we play with confidence and swag and that's what I think it's about. We have got a good team with a bunch of explosive players on defense and offense."

The Falcons face the New Orleans Saints next week at the the Superdome.