City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Return to the Top?
Birmingham Charter dominated the L.A. City Section Open Division by winning three consecutive championships from 2021 to 2023. The program not only collected trophies but also made history by surpassing LA Wilson’s longstanding City Section winning streak. LA Wilson’s record was 39 consecutive wins set in 1978, but Birmingham extended it to 48 straight victories.
Last year, however, Birmingham's streak and hopes for a fourth straight title were halted by a loss to Narbonne in the Open Division semifinals. Following that season, Narbonne had to vacate its championship due to CIF violations involving ineligible players and forfeited all victories, which retroactively awarded Birmingham the semifinal win.
Current Season and Outlook
Under the leadership of coach Jim Rose, Birmingham remains a strong contender in the Open Division. The Patriots' streak over City teams has grown to 54 consecutive wins. This season, they hold the No. 2 seed in the playoffs and are positioned to clash with top-seeded teams as they advance.
The Patriots begin their playoff run at home and aim to reach the Open Division final at LA Southwest College on November 29. This final will see their opponent face off against a newcomer, the Cougars, who are making their first Open Division appearance.
Open Division Playoff Field Highlights
- Birmingham Charter, seeded No. 2
- New entrants such as the Cougars making debut appearances
- LA Southwest College hosting the Open final
"Birmingham Charter won three straight LA City Section Open Division championships from 2021 to 2023."
"Narbonne had to forfeit all its victories, which technically gave Birmingham a win instead of a loss in the semifinals."
Summary: Birmingham Charter aims to reclaim its dominance in the LA City Section playoffs, maintaining a remarkable winning streak as it competes for a fourth consecutive Open Division title.