Steelers vs. Cowboys: Thoughts on the OT loss

Another week, another way to lose a game. The Steelers loss in Dallas means little in the actual playoff picture. If they manage to win out against Cincinnati and Cleveland, they're in the playoffs. However, Baltimore's loss earlier in the day opened a possibility for the Steelers to nab the division title. But yet again, the Steelers' frustrating 2012 campaign continued. Some quick reactions to follow, and after a loss, we'll start with the negatives:

• First, Antonio Brown. Yikes. Two miscues cost his team the game, plain and simple. His fumbled punt return and his failure to stay in bounds were two crushing mistakes. We all know it, he knows it, but ball security has been an issue with this team, especially the wideouts. This has to change if the Steelers want to make the playoffs.
• LaMarr Woodley, where are you? I don't think his name was called once. James Harrison is finally making plays like his old self, but his counterpart is nowhere to be found. With an injured secondary, getting pressure on the quarterback should be a huge priority.
• The secondary needs Ike Taylor in the worst way. My peeve of the Steelers defense is that they allow those 10-yard comeback routes all day to avoid giving up the big play. That's fine, but Romo picked them apart today. They were simply outclassed.
• The offensive line played a solid game ... except in the final stages. Some of that has to do with Ben holding onto the ball too long, but the pressure came in waves at the end of regulation. The Steelers had a chance at a field goal to win it, but sacks ended any hope.
• Heath Miller needs to get the ball more. It's that simple.
• Seriously, where is LaMarr Woodley?
• David DeCastro asserted himself nicely today. I noticed no major mistakes. The line could soon become a position of strength for the Steelers.
• Shaun Suisham for Pro Bowl.
• The Ben Roethlisberger touchdown pass to Heath Miller deserves a nickname. It was that good. Unfortunately, it came during a loss, but it was one of those "Ben" plays that no other QB in the league makes. I hardly ever jump out of my seat anymore, but that play made me do just that.
• There also appears to be some Ben/Haley controversy brewing.
• Next week's game against the Bengals is crucial. Someone let LaMarr Woodley know what time it starts.