MMQB Week 8: Christian McCaffrey’s Impact, First-Place Falcons

Welcome to Week 8 of the NFL season here at The MMQB. We are trying things a little differently with Albert Breer’s Monday-morning column, publishing items as separate stories throughout the morning. Below are links to everything Albert wrote about Week 8, plus more from our staff.

Inside the Christian McCaffrey Trade and His Historic Day Against the Rams

McCaffrey has made a quick impact for his new team.

Robert Hanashiro/USA TODAY Sports

The Christian McCaffrey trade cost the 49ers a bunch of picks, but Sunday’s effort against the Rams showed why it could spell trouble for other NFC teams. Albert Breer spoke to Kyle Shanahan about his new star, whom he has known for a very long time.

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Three Deep: Nathaniel Hackett and Russell Wilson Can Finally Exhale

Wilson has had a rocky start in Denver, but showed signs on Sunday that the Broncos are not out of it.

Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

The Broncos can put September and October behind them after a big victory over the Jaguars in London. Plus, Albert Breer talks to Geno Smith about how the Seahawks keep winning and talks to Terry McLaurin about why he loves Indianapolis. 

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Takeaways: The Falcons Are In First Place; Trade Deadline Could Be Quiet

Dale Zanine/USA TODAY Sports

Albert Breer talks to Marcus Mariota, who is leading the surprisingly first-place Falcons. Plus, the Bills look ho-hum in a win over the Packers, the Cowboys are rounding into form, the Colts could be sellers by Tuesday’s cutoff and much more.

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Six From Saturday: Scout Breaks Down Kentucky QB Will Levis

Levis is one of three QBs most likely to be the first player drafted at the position this year.

Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel/USA TODAY Network

Plus more notes on Week 9 of the college football season, including prospects at Georgia and Ohio State.

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MAQB: Why Roquan Smith Trade Is a Typical Move From the Ravens

Daniel Bartel/USA TODAY Sports

Albert Breer on Baltimore's acquisition of the former Bears linebacker who is in the final year of his contract. Plus, more on what Breer is hearing as we get closer to Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline.

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More From The MMQB Staff

Conor Orr: Tua Tagovailoa Is Finally Getting a Chance to Prove He’s a Franchise QB

Conor Orr: The NFL Needs to Change Its Celebration Penalty Rules

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MMQB Podcast

Listen to Gary Gramling and Conor Orr break down all the games and every major story line on The MMQB Podcast, in your feed every Monday morning.