HBO 'Hard Knocks': Top Dolphins Storylines to Watch for in Episode 2

Week 1 of the Miami Dolphins’ HBO Hard Knocks feature previewed the team’s preparation for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Episode 2 will highlight the aftermath of a 20-7 beat down at the hands of the Bucs. And of course, there’s that whole Chad Johnson vs. the Phins and Evelyn Lozada drama.

Here are the most interesting storylines to watch in the second week:

3. How Players React to Chad Johnson’s Release

You better believe the release of the team’s comic relief will be a topic of discussion among players. Karlos Dansby, for one, is already talking. According to Greg Rosenthal of NFL.com, he said of Johnson’s cutting:

"

I hate that we didn't stand behind him. … It's going to be an even bigger distraction right now, I think, because of the simple fact we let him go. I think if we were going to be with the guy, if he was going to be our guy, we have to stand behind him—even though the situation came about. He didn't get that third strike.

"

It’ll be interesting to see if Johnson’s former teammates share Dansby’s view of the situation or if they approve of ridding themselves of the controversy.

2. Who Will Step Up in Johnson’s Absence?

After trading Brandon Marshall this offseason, Miami was already thin at wide receiver. Now, it needs someone to step up on the outside more than ever.

Brian Hartline, Davone Bess and Legedu Naanee were considered key weapons on the Dolphins’ offense even before Johnson’s release. Other wideouts that could benefit from no Ocho include: Julius Pruitt, Marlon Moore, Jeff Fuller, Roberto Wallace, Clyde Gates and Rishard Matthews.

With underdogs that much closer to securing a roster spot, expect the competition to heat up.

1. Battle for the Starting Quarterback Job

David Garrard looked like he had the inside track on starting for the Dolphins this season. An injury, though, has opened the door for Matt Moore and Ryan Tannehill. And according to Omar Kelly of the Orlando Sentinel, they’re now the front-runners for the job.

Against the Buccaneers, Tannehill threw 21 passes and completed 14 of them for 167 yards and a touchdown. Moore didn’t fair nearly as well going 7-for-12 and throwing an interception.

Right now, Miami’s passing game can be summed up by a giant question mark.

David Daniels is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report and a syndicated writer.

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