FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) -- John L. Smith figures to leave Arkansas riding the same overflowing emotion that carried him back to the state.

The likely farewell tour for the interim coach began in earnest Monday, with Smith left fighting back tears while discussing his coaching future, the Razorbacks' season-finale against No. 8 LSU, and the difficult season that has left Arkansas (4-7, 2-5 Southeastern Conference) outside of the bowl picture for the first time since 2008.

Smith, who was hired in April to replace the fired Bobby Petrino, is hoping to keep coaching after this season -- wherever that might be.

The former Michigan State and Louisville coach also acknowledged the possibility that he won't be back with the Razorbacks, a likely scenario as athletic director Jeff Long's search for a long-term coach continues.