City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Return to the Top?
Birmingham Charter dominated the L.A. City Section Open Division playoffs with three consecutive titles from 2021 to 2023. The program not only won trophies but also set a historic record by surpassing LA Wilson’s 1978 streak of 39 straight wins over City Section opponents, extending it to 48 consecutive victories.
However, last year Birmingham's momentum was halted by Narbonne in the Open Division semifinals, ending the Patriots' hopes for a fourth straight championship.
Changes After Last Season
Following Narbonne’s Open Division title win last year, the team had to vacate the championship due to CIF violations involving ineligible players. As a result, Narbonne forfeited all its victories, which officially turned their semifinal win over Birmingham into a forfeit, preserving Birmingham’s winning streak.
Current Season Outlook
Under the leadership of coach Jim Rose, Birmingham Charter remains a strong contender in the Open Division. The Patriots’ winning streak against City teams now stands at 54 consecutive games.
Entered as the No. 2 seed in this year’s playoffs, Birmingham is poised for a significant matchup against an emerging contender, with the Open Division final scheduled for November 29 at LA Southwest College.
“The Patriots start their march to LA Southwest College, where the Open final will be played on Nov. 29.”
This season also marks the first Open Division appearance for the Cougars, adding fresh competition to the playoff field.
Open Division Playoff Field
- No. 2 seed: Birmingham Charter Patriots
- First-time Open Division appearance: The Cougars
- Upcoming final: November 29
The Patriots aim to reclaim their place at the top of the City Section football landscape amid evolving competition.
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