Since practice began in preparation for the 2025 football season, the Wall Hawks have had two dates figuratively circled on their calendars:

• Whenever — if ever — they got a chance for revenge against Gunter

• And Dec. 18.

Thanks to a thrilling 28-25 win last week, Wall placed a big X over the first box. By dispatching the three-time defending Class 3A Division II state champion Tigers in the state semifinals, the Hawks helped erase the memories of last season’s 42-32 loss, also in the semifinals. In the process, Wall ran its record to 15-0.

Consequently, there is still one more X to apply. And it’s THE BIG ONE.