Behind the Beast: Interview Inside the Mind of Marshawn Lynch

Marshawn Lynch has been the Buffalo Bills' most dangerous offensive weapon in his first two seasons in the NFL. Lynch's unmatched dedication toting the rock, along with his uncanny ability to elude defenders, has shown he can be a franchise running back for the next decade.

He's a favorite in Buffalo, but two run-ins with the law in one calendar year have Bills fans wondering if Lynch can unleash "Beast Mode" consistently throughout his career, or if he'll be tamed by the league's front office.

Lynch has been suspended for the first three games of the 2009 season, but an appeal is pending. He now walks on thin ice with Commissioner Roger Goodell and is the most relied upon Bills threat. Let's pick his brain in this mock interview at such a pivotal point in his playing career:

1. Marshawn, with your suspension at the beginning of the season, what have you done or what will you do to prepare yourself to be back to 100 percent when you return?

2. Now with you, Fred Jackson, and Dominic Rhodes creating a formidable rushing trio, how will your game change? Also, are you welcoming the possibility of sharing the load with two other backs to keep your legs fresh?

3. What could you say to Bills fans in order to ensure them you've learned from your mistakes? Have you taken a new approach to how you're living off the field?

4. Entering your third season and your prime, what have you learned about the difficulties one faces during the grueling 16-game season? How do you plan to build on your first two years as a player?

5. As a whole, were you happy with the offseason moves made by the front office this year? How will the additions of Terrell Owens, Geoff Hangartner, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Dominic Rhodes benefit the team? How will losing Jason Peters, Derrick Dockery, Robert Royal, and J.P. Losman possibly hurt the team?

6. What are your goals as an individual in 2009? What aspects of your game need work, or what areas are you looking to improve on?

7. How good can Fred Jackson be? Many say you two can be the most threatening running back duo in the AFC. What facets of his game complement yours well, and vice versa?

8. Many fans and analysts try to predict a team's success; I'm wondering what your realistic expectations are for the Bills in 2009? Any guarantees?

Thanks for your time, Marshawn, good luck this season.