City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Return to the Top?
Birmingham Charter won three consecutive L.A. City Section Open Division titles from 2021 to 2023, establishing itself as a powerhouse in local high school football. The program also set a remarkable winning streak against City Section opponents, breaking the previous record of 39 wins set by LA Wilson in 1978.
Historic Winning Streak and Last Year's Setback
Birmingham extended its streak to 48 straight wins before losing to Narbonne in the Open Division semifinals last year, ending hopes for a fourth consecutive championship.
Changes After Last Season
Shortly after Narbonne won the Open Division title, it was forced to vacate the championship due to CIF violations involving ineligible players. All of Narbonne's victories were forfeited, which retroactively gave Birmingham a win instead of a loss in the semifinals.
"Narbonne had to forfeit all its victories, which technically gave Birmingham a win instead of a loss in the semifinals."
Current Season Outlook
Under coach Jim Rose, Birmingham Charter enters this season as a strong Open Division contender. The Patriots’ winning streak over City teams is now at 54 games. As the No. 2 seed in the current playoffs, Birmingham is on track to face No. 1 seed in a highly anticipated matchup.
The Patriots will begin their campaign with a home game against a team making its first Open Division appearance. The Open Division final is scheduled for November 29 at LA Southwest College.
Open Division Field
- No. 1 Seed (implied opponent of Birmingham)
- Birmingham Charter, No. 2 Seed
- Other teams competing in the Open Division playoffs
- The Cougars, making their debut in the Open Division
"The Patriots start their march to LA Southwest College, where the Open final will be played on Nov. 29."
Birmingham Charter remains a dominant force in the City Section, striving to reclaim its top place amid tough competition and renewed playoff dynamics.
Author’s summary: Birmingham Charter's football program strives to reclaim dominance after last year's setback, maintaining a record-breaking City Section winning streak and strong playoff prospects.