WALL, TX — The Wall Hawks (ranked No. 3 in Class 3A Division II) clash with the Jim Ned Indians (No. 10 in 3A D-I) in a rivalry matchup that is sure to bring fireworks.
Both teams are undefeated heading into this week and need another win to keep the momentum rolling.
Hear from Wall Hawks head coach Craig Slaughter below:
The Hawks feel confident heading into this matchup after big wins over Mason and Brownwood in the season's first two weeks. Wall traveled to Brownwood last week and beat the 4A Lions 35-10. Wall's defense proved too much for the Lions in that matchup as the starters only allowed three points all ball game before Brownwood managed to score in garbage time against Wall's depth.
Wall needs another performance like that on Friday. Last season, the Hawks narrowly beat the Indians at home, 25-24. Jim Ned took the lead late, and it took some late-game heroics for Wall to claim victory. A two-point conversion with eight seconds left on the clock gave Wall the victory.
Expect that same type of game in this matchup. Both offenses excel at moving the football, and both defenses are tough to beat. Jim Ned likes to run the ball and grind the clock, so the Hawks need to take advantage of the few times they get the ball with points every time the offense is on the field. That effeciency will come from quarterback Landon York.
York finished off Brownwood last week with a near-perfect passing record. He threw for 253 yards on 19 of 22 passing, three touchdowns, and an interception. Wall's big-play capability will serve the Hawks well against Jim Ned. A few scores early will force Jim Ned to change up its game plan and not allow the Indians to grind out the clock.
On defense, the Hawks must get off the field when they put Jim Ned in third-down situations. Because the Indians like to run the ball, long drives will only cause the Indians' offense to become more imposing as the game progresses.
Wall Hawks in action against Mason 2025
(Credit: Kurt Hoffmaster)
Chadwick's Pick
The Hawks come into this matchup with tons of momentum—riding high off of two big wins. This rivalry matchup could serve as the first opportunity for the Hawks' starters to finish out a game this season. Jim Ned will not roll over for the Hawks. The Indians have title aspirations of their own, and a win against their rivals would do great things for their confidence heading into district play.
However, I think that Wall has too much in the tank this year. I expect York and his talented wide receivers to have another big game. The key factor will be how well Wall's defense contains Jim Ned's rushing attack. Wall wins this one, 35-21.
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