City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Return to the Top?
Birmingham Charter dominated the L.A. City Section Open Division playoffs by winning three consecutive titles from 2021 to 2023. During this period, the team not only collected trophies but also set a remarkable record by extending its winning streak against City Section opponents to 48 games, breaking the previous record of 39 set by LA Wilson in 1978.
However, last year brought a setback when Narbonne ended Birmingham's streak in the Open Division semifinals, halting their pursuit of a fourth straight City championship. But the situation soon shifted dramatically.
Narbonne's Title Vacated Due to CIF Violations
Shortly after Narbonne won last year's Open Division title, the team was forced to vacate the championship due to CIF violations involving ineligible players. This led to Narbonne forfeiting all its victories, which technically restored Birmingham’s semifinal loss to a win.
Current Season: Patriots Aim for Another Title
Under the guidance of coach Jim Rose, Birmingham Charter is once again a strong contender in the Open Division. Their winning streak against City teams now stands at 54 straight victories. Entering the playoffs as the No. 2 seed, the Patriots look poised for a deep run.
Their journey begins with a home game against the No. 7 seed, marking the start of their quest to play in the Open Division final at LA Southwest College on November 29. This season also marks the Open Division debut for the Cougars, adding fresh competition to the field.
Open Division Playoff Field Overview
- Birmingham Charter: No. 2 seed, returning champions
- Cougars: First-time Open Division participants
- Other seeded teams: Details unspecified
“The streak is still intact at 54 straight wins over City teams,” said coach Jim Rose, underscoring the Patriots' sustained dominance.
The Patriots remain focused and determined to reclaim their spot at the top of the City Section football hierarchy.
Author's summary: Birmingham Charter, after a challenging year due to external rulings, continues its dominant run with a 54-game City Section win streak and aims to reclaim the Open Division title in the 2025 playoffs.