Hard Knocks 2012: Top Miami Dolphins Storylines to Watch for in Finale

This summer's HBO Hard Knocks series following the Miami Dolphins during training camp and preseason has been both entertaining and full of storylines to say the least.

From the coaching staff to the players and even the wives and girlfriends, the first four episodes have provided an incredible amount of insight into what's in store for the Dolphins in 2012.

As next week's series finale approaches, it's time to break down some of the top storylines that viewers will be watching for on September 4. 

Let's begin.

Will Funny Man Jarrell Root Earn a Roster Spot?

Over the course of this summer's HBO Hard Knocks series, viewers have learned a lot about one of the show's best characters, defensive end Jarrell Root.

The former Boise State Bronco is currently fighting for a roster spot, and makes for an entertaining watch when he's firing back at his coaches during practice. 

His unique hair color (brown with blonde splotches throughout) also makes him stand out during meetings and locker-room scenes. 

If you're anything like me, you're rooting for Root to make the cut this season as one of the more likable characters in this year's series.

Not to mention you probably feel bad for Root after his buddy Chas Alecxih was cut from the team.

Will Joe Philbin Lighten Up?

After watching Rex Ryan deliver must-see television on Hard Knocks in 2010, I have to say that I'm hardly moved by Miami Dolphins first-year head coach Joe Philbin.

As a Green Bay Packers fan, I wonder how Philbin could have possibly motivated Aaron Rodgers to become an elite NFL quarterback as offensive coordinator from 2007 to 2011.

When he's not walking around picking up trash or ripping his players for having untied shoes and wearing bracelets, it seems like Philbin is doing his best Ben Stein impression. 

Sure, the Dolphins' poor play this preseason (0-3) has given him no reason to be excited, but the question heading into next Tuesday's finale is whether Philbin will lighten up as the regular season approaches.

Will Jeff Ireland's Office Continue to Steal the Show?

Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland was the star of the fourth episode of Hard Knocks as the team cut the roster down from 90 to 75 players. 

Ireland had several one-on-one conversations with released players, some taking it better than others. Running back Jerome Messam was one of the frustrated cuts who felt Miami never even gave him a chance.

With more cuts sure to come on the finale next Tuesday, Ireland's office promises to be the dominant scene of Hard Knocks, as he trims Miami's roster down to 53 men.

The question is, though, will any other drama unfold in the next week that will overshadow the heart-wrenching cuts?

Unless the Dolphins actually win a preseason game at Dallas on Wednesday, that probably won't happen. 

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