Each week throughout the season, PFW executive editor and resident Packers expert Dan Arkush hooks up with a personality who has connections with the Packers and asks him five Packer-related questions. Today Dan hooks up with former NFL player Fred Cone, who played for the Packers from 1951-57 and is a member of the Packers Hall of Fame.

1. Do you keep up with your old team?

Cone: Yes I do. My wife and I were actually down in Atlanta for the game this past Sunday afternoon and were sorry to see them lose a game they came very close to winning.

2. What do you think the turning point was in the game?

Cone: It was neck and neck. I guess it would have to be the fact that Atlanta could run the ball a little better than Green Bay and come up with better ball control. And if the kickoff coverage would have been a bit better, it might have been a different story.

3. What do you think of the Packers’ run game?

Cone: The run game could be better. If they had Ryan Grant, they would be really good. The other guys aren’t bad, but they are not like that Turner fellow (Michael Turner). He’s a really good ball-control back who can pick up the short yardage when needed and also make long gains if he can get an opening.

4. What do you think of their playoff chances?

Cone: It’s going to be tough to win the Super Bowl, but they should be right in the thick of it. The Bears have turned up real strong, and so they will have to overcome them.
 
5. Who’s your favorite Packer player?

Cone: That Matthews kid (Clay Matthews) can’t help but catch your eye pretty often with his pass rush, and, of course, there’s (Aaron) Rodgers. They’ve got several outstanding guys. But in my opinion, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews are neck and neck as the two best defensive players that I’ve seen. They have so much enthusiasm and go all out on every play