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Alex Pihlstrom, Illinois OL, shares heartfelt message on social media following final game

Ginny Boulton

By Ginny Boulton

Published:

Alex Pihlstrom walked off the field for the final time as an Illinois player on Monday.

After Mississippi State defeated the Illini 19-10 in the ReliaQuest Bowl, the sixth year senior took time to take a photo of himself and two teammates, along with an emotional farewell on Twitter. Pihlstrom walked off the field after the ReliaQuest Bowl with Alex Palczewski, and Michael Marchese, who are also seniors leaving the program.

Along with the photo, the OL posted a tribute, saying “Tough one to end it on but it was a pleasure and an honor putting this jersey on with my best friends. Love these guys and love this University.”

Pihlstrom has been a mainstay on the Illinois offensive line since joining the team. The OL originally joined the Illini as a walk-on TE in 2017. Pihlstom started all 12 games this season, earning All-Big Ten second team and All-Big Ten honorable mention honors from the coaches and media.

Ginny Boulton