Q: Do you think Mark Rubin will significantly improve this year, and if not, who is his most likely replacement?

Wayne, Kutztown, Pa.

MUSSELMAN: Rubin is a very good athlete. He started six games at wide receiver as a freshman in 2004 and made five starts at strong safety a year ago when Tony Davis was injured. Rubin is penciled in as the starter, but is being pushed by Knowledge Timmons. Anthony Scirrotto is a three-year starter at free safety. And Lydell Sargeant, A.J. Wallace and Davis (he has switched positions again) all have prior starting experience at cornerback. Drew Astorino has been impressive in preseason drills and could end up as the nickleback.

First Published: August 22, 2008, 4:00 a.m.