HIGH SCHOOL NOTEBOOK

Birmingham’s loss to Chatsworth last week did more than blow a chance for an unbeaten regular season.

It also brought on an ominous weather report: a hailstorm of footballs.

The Patriots (9-1) drew Palisades (8-2), which possesses the most prolific passing attack in the state.

Quarterback David Koral has completed 253 of 410 passes for 3,963 yards and 43 touchdowns. Receivers Greig Carlson, Charles Ealy and Jacques Lazarus each have more than 60 catches.

Koral passed for a national record 750 yards in a victory over Grant.

“We do what we do, which is pass the football,” assistant coach Chuck Price said.

Palisades had an eight-game winning streak snapped by Westchester last week and opened the season with a 35-26 loss to Cleveland.

Birmingham beat Cleveland three weeks ago, 42-0.

“We are a completely different football team than we were against Cleveland,” Price said. “Three defensive starters from that game aren’t on the team anymore and two of our best players weren’t in uniform. We are 150% better now.”

As impressive as Koral is, he does make mistakes. He had six passes intercepted against Westchester and has had 13 picked off this season. He also has been sacked more than 50 times.

“We do not have a great offensive line,” Price said. “David will take punishment and fight to the bitter end.”

Also of concern to Price is the Birmingham defensive backfield of John Walker, Ramal Porter, Chad Green and Kevin McCleary.

“They have terrific athletes on defense,” Price said. “Birmingham is a solid football team. They pose a unique set of problems.”