It's tough to imagine what one of the biggest nights in your career as a student-athlete would feel like without your parents being able to join you on the field.

For Michigan State University cornerback Josh Butler, it was a challenge that he faced head-on with the help of two trusting companions ahead of the school's game against the University of Maryland, reports CNN.

During the school's Senior Night on Saturday, most Michigan State student-athletes were joined by parents to commemorate their final home game. Butler, whose parents are deceased, exited the tunnel at Lansing, Michigan's, Spartan Stadium for the last time with his two dogs Roxy and Remi. A Bleacher Report video of the bittersweet moment made the rounds on Twitter. 

Butler, who is originally from Mesquite, Texas, lost both of his parents during his student career at the university. The college football player lost his father on November 4, 2017, due to a heart attack right before a game against Penn State. Butler decided to play and told Freep he did so for his dad. His mother, Ladrida Bagley, passed away on April 28 of this year from breast cancer. Butler drove over 18 hours to his hometown in Texas to be by her side during her final hours. 

The student-athlete, who will complete his master's degree in media and information studies this month, told CBS News that although his parents are no longer living, he always feels their presence. He added that he plans to continue honoring their memory in a meaningful way.

Following an outpouring of love and support from the internet — and all around — for his two rescue dogs, Butler has now created a Instagram account for the two pups. The page has already garnered over 8,000 followers since its creation. After Saturday's win against Maryland, Butler took to his Twitter Page @JoshButlerTV to thank fans for the outpouring of support.

Butler has a twin brother, Akilian Butler, who also plays college football. The Boise State student-athlete carried a breast cancer awareness flag to honor his late mother during his school's Senior Night reports Idaho State Press.  

The Michigan State Spartans defeated the Maryland Terrapins with a 19-16 win. Butler, who earned his Bachelor's degree last December according to Freep, will be receiving his Master's degree on December 13. 

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