(October 6, 2008)--The Dallas Cowboys are struggling with "America's Burden," the downside to being "America's Team."

Players were a little snippy today as they addressed questions about a 31-22 victory against the winless Cincinnati Bengals that everyone figured would be a breeze when Dallas jumped to a 17-0 lead.

Even though the Cowboys are 4-1, fans are jittery after last year's playoff flop, last week's loss to Washington and a closer-than-it-should-have-been win over one of the league's worst teams.

Nose tackle Tank Johnson says everyone needs to "calm down" and let the Cowboys play out the season. Linebacker Bradie James says it wears on him to hear all the criticism after a win.

Coach Wade Phillips simply refuses to acknowledge the negative.

Asked about Tony Romo's eight-game interception streak, Phillips says Dallas has four of the five games this year.

Asked about the seemingly fragile emotions of receiver Terrell Owens, Phillips says he really enjoyed watching T-O's 57-yard touchdown.

Phillips doesn't care if outsiders label him soft, as long as the Cowboys win.