City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Return to the Top?
After winning three consecutive Open Division titles in the L.A. City Section playoffs from 2021 to 2023, Birmingham Charter faced a setback last year against Narbonne.
During their dominant run, Birmingham Charter not only secured multiple championships but also made history by surpassing LA Wilson’s 39-game winning streak over City Section teams, set in 1978. Birmingham extended the streak to 48 consecutive wins before a loss to Narbonne in last year’s Open Division semifinals halted their bid for a fourth straight title.
Narbonne had to vacate last year’s Open Division title due to CIF violations involving ineligible players and forfeited all its victories, which technically restored Birmingham’s semifinal win.
This season, under coach Jim Rose, Birmingham Charter has reemerged as a strong Open Division contender. Their winning streak over City Section teams now stands at 54 straight wins. The Patriots enter the playoffs as the No. 2 seed and are poised for a potential showdown with the top seed.
Birmingham begins their playoff run at home, facing the No. 7 seed. Meanwhile, the No. 8 seed, the Cougars, are making their inaugural Open Division appearance. The Open Division final is scheduled for November 29 at LA Southwest College.
Open Division Playoff Field Overview
- No. 2 seed: Birmingham Charter Patriots
- No. 7 seed: Birmingham’s first playoff opponent
- No. 8 seed: Cougars, making their first Open Division appearance
- Final: November 29 at LA Southwest College
The Open Division competition sets up an exciting conclusion to the season, with Birmingham aiming to reclaim its position at the top following last year's challenges.
Author’s summary: Birmingham Charter aims to reclaim its dominance in the L.A. City Section Open Division playoffs, building on a historic winning streak and navigating a competitive field this season.