LSU coach Brian Kelly held his weekly press conference on Monday to provide team updates ahead of Saturday's home finale vs. UAB. Senior Night kickoff is set for 8pm CT on ESPN2.

Opening remarks: Kelly began his press conference by sharing his thoughts and prayers with Virginia after the tragic shooting there last night.

On Senior Night: LSU will honor 17 seniors at Tiger Stadium. 13 have already graduated from LSU, Kelly said. "Our mission is to graduate champions, and we will live up to that creed."

On the tough Arkansas win: "Winning is a habit. Losing can become a habit. They found a way to win that game."

On UAB: "It will be a challenge stopping running back DeWayne McBride. He has had over 1,400 yards in 10 games on 6.9 yards per carry. They have a veteran roster and offensive scheme. They are a better team than their record."

On offensive issues vs. Arkansas: "We were defended quite well vs. Arkansas. We have to make some adjustments and be one step ahead. Our preparation needs to be better, and we need to coach better on the offensive side of the ball."

On the chicken broth on LSU's sideline: "I prefer clam chowder," Kelly jokes. Dr. Frakes suggested the broth for salt/nutrition purposes.

Kelly says they are not prepping for Georiga yet: "We'll have plenty of time. Our focus is on UAB and A&M. These two games are so important for us and the development of our program."

On if the program's success is ahead of schedule: "I didn't put any wins and losses on this team. I wanted to teach them to play hard. To be better in November. And teach them how to win. I think we're on schedule."

On Harold Perkins: Kelly highlighted several players on the defense that are playing outstanding and opening up things for Perkins to make big plays. He says teams might leave a spy home like a running back in the backfield to counter Perkins.

On Greg Penn: "It was easily Greg Penn's best game," Kelly said. Penn is being challenged by freshman DeMario Tolan, and Penn responded nicely with a big game at Arkansas. “He played with physicality and great instincts. That's what we expect out of him. I think he's going to have a great offseason and be a heck of a player for us."

On Micah Baskerville: "He has been amazing. He's got his degree, and he's a leader. He’s been inspirational to watch him grow and overcome all the things in his past."

On the senior class: “Watching them become SEC West champions is so gratifying because they made that choice. They could’ve been average. But they’ve chosen to be champions by the way they’ve gone to work every day, in the classroom and on the football field.”

Injury updates:

-Brian Thomas: He's in the next step of his concussion protocol. Hoping to have him in non-contact by Wednesday and possibly available vs. UAB on Saturday.

-John Emery is fine, just a bruise. #LSU

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