City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Return to the Top?
Birmingham Charter dominated the L.A. City Section Open Division with three consecutive titles from 2021 to 2023. The team not only collected championships but also set a historic record by surpassing LA Wilson’s 39-game winning streak over City Section opponents established in 1978. Birmingham extended that streak to 48 straight wins before Narbonne defeated them in last year’s Open Division semifinals, ending both the streak and their chance for a fourth consecutive crown.
Changes Since Last Year
After winning the Open Division title last season, Narbonne was forced to vacate its championship due to CIF violations involving ineligible players. This resulted in Narbonne forfeiting all its victories, which technically converted Birmingham’s semifinal loss into a win. Today, under coach Jim Rose, Birmingham is once again a top contender in the Open Division with the winning streak standing at 54 straight victories against City teams.
Current Season and Playoff Outlook
Birmingham enters the playoffs as the No. 2 seed in the Open Division and is poised for a potential showdown with the top seed. Their journey to the Open Division final at LA Southwest College on November 29 begins with a home game against an unfamiliar opponent. The Cougars are making their first appearance in the Open Division, highlighting the evolving competition this season.
Open Division Field Overview
- Birmingham Charter: No. 2 seed
- Top-seeded team: likely opponent in finals
- The Cougars: first-time Open Division participant
“Soon after Narbonne won last year’s Open Division title, it had to vacate the title due to CIF violations that included competing with ineligible players.”
The Patriots are determined to reclaim their dominance and are on track to extend their historic winning streak further.
Author's summary: Birmingham Charter remains a powerhouse in L.A. City Section football, poised to extend their historic winning streak and reclaim Open Division glory under coach Jim Rose’s leadership.