Here's to hoping that the absence (fueled by the lack of games) of the Friday picks column last week gives the blog an opportunity to regroup after back-to-back disastrous weeks.

After stumbling to a 2-3 record in the inaugural pickoff, my luck didn't get any better two weeks ago, when four underdogs won outright and Marist fought Canisius to a push, sending me to a 1-2-2 week and a 3-5-1 overall record.

In the final pickoff column of the regular season, I need a big night to get back to .500. Here's my best shot at doing so:

Siena (minus six) over RIDER

This is a tough one. I thought the line would be a bit smaller, and if it was, the Saints would be a no-brainer. But in spite of its so-so play of late, I like the Saints to pull away late. Prediction: Siena 82, Rider 74

Canisius (plus 4) over LOYOLA

The Hounds may be at home, but the Golden Griffs are more talented and -- given the fact that they're playing for a spot in the top six -- maybe more motivated. I like the visitors to win outright. Prediction: Canisius 71, Loyola 67

FAIRFIELD (minus 3) over Iona

Another game in which picking the winner straight-up, let alone against the spread, is hard enough. But with second place on the line, I like the Stags to stay hot at home. Prediction: Fairfield 75, Iona 71

Saint Peter's (minus 8) at MARIST

The Peacocks are hardly surging into Poughkeepsie and the Red Foxes are coming off their best performance in a month. But that doesn't mean this will be even reasonably close. Prediction: Saint Peter's 84, Marist 69

Niagara (minus 3 1/2) at MANHATTAN

I'm in no way guaranteeing victory, but I can't help but think this is the easiest pick of the night. The Jaspers came out of the gate on fire against Towson, but Niagara is the much better team and is still in need of a strong finish. Prediction: Niagara 78, Manhattan 71