5 wild predictions: Houston Texans at Minnesota Vikings

Oct 3, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon (21) celebrates his touchdown with wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) during the fourth quarter against the New York Giants at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon (21) celebrates his touchdown with wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) during the fourth quarter against the New York Giants at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 3, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (84) catches a pass against the New York Giants in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (84) catches a pass against the New York Giants in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /

Cordarrelle Patterson has 150 yards from scrimmage

With Stefon Diggs listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Texans, someone will have to step up at receiver for the Vikings offense to function effectively. While I was tempted to peg rookie Laquon Treadwell as that player, I envision a big contribution from explosive fourth-year receiver Cordarrelle Patterson.

After getting more involved in the offense than he has been in a long time last week, to the tune of six total touches for 40 yards, Patterson should have a clear opportunity to capitalize if Diggs is out.

While slot receiver Jarius Wright will likely fill in for much of Diggs’ snaps, expect the offense to look to Patterson for big plays. Whether it’s through the air, on a reverse, or on a standard handoff, we’ve all seen what Cordarrelle Patterson is capable of. Without Stefon Diggs, a main centerpiece of the offense, Patterson should get a chance to show that off.

After earning back some of the trust of the coaching staff last week, Patterson should make the most of an increased number of touches this week, turning a variety of designed runs and standard receiving routes into over 150 total yards.