City Section Football Playoffs: Can Birmingham Charter Get Back to the Top?
Birmingham Charter’s football program established itself as a powerhouse with three consecutive L.A. City Section Open Division titles from 2021 to 2023. The Patriots made history by surpassing L.A. Wilson’s long-standing record of 39 consecutive wins set in 1978, reaching an impressive 48 straight victories over City Section opponents.
However, their pursuit of a fourth consecutive title ended when Narbonne halted their streak in the 2024 Open Division semifinals. That loss temporarily ended Birmingham’s reign, but soon after, Narbonne was forced to vacate its championship and all wins due to CIF violations involving ineligible players.
As a result, Birmingham’s record was technically corrected to include a win for that semifinal, keeping their dominance alive. Moving into the new season, under coach Jim Rose, the Patriots have extended their winning streak to 54 straight victories against City Section teams.
Ranked as the No. 2 seed in this year’s Open Division playoffs, Birmingham now prepares to face new challengers on the road to the finals at L.A. Southwest College on November 29. Their opening opponent, the Cougars, are making their first-ever appearance in the Open Division.
"The Patriots are once again contenders for the Open Division crown, driven by experience and tradition." — Coach Jim Rose
Open Division Outlook
- No. 1 seed: Yet to be announced, widely expected to be Birmingham’s main rival.
- No. 2 seed: Birmingham Charter Patriots.
- No. — The Cougars, first Open Division appearance.
Author’s Summary
Birmingham Charter seeks redemption and a renewed crown after a technical setback, riding a 54-game win streak that reaffirms their standing as the team to beat.