Not only have Gilmer and Henderson won two of the last three Class 3A Division I state championships, but since becoming district mates in District 16-3A, they have given football fans plenty of drama.
The Highlanders and Lufkin Panthers never faced one another on the gridiron before being placed in the same district in 2004. And every year since, this game has ultimately decided a district championship, which could again be the case this year when the two meet in Lufkin on Oct. 12.
This Oct. 12 clash may not only ultimately decide the District 16-4A race, but it could be one of the best matchup of dual-threat quarterbacks all season.
Less than two years ago, Henderson and Chapel Hill weren’t only battling for East Texas bragging rights but statewide supremacy in the 3A Division I state championship game -- the first held at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.