In 1974, the Patriots’ playoff hopes were tied up in court. The AHSAA ruled Tuscaloosa High had used an ineligible 19-year-old running back, which would have given Homewood the Region 7 crown. But a Tuscaloosa judge ordered a new birth certificate issued, restoring the Black Bears’ season. A Jefferson County judge then reversed that ruling. Finally, the Alabama Supreme Court returned the decision to the AHSAA, which declared Tuscaloosa’s forfeit stood. That gave Homewood the region title and a playoff berth — just in time for the postseason to begin.

Head coach Alvin Bresler summed up the mood: “Tuscaloosa may get to the state playoffs, but we’ll go down fighting.”

Fight they did. Homewood beat Hueytown, Banks and Anniston to reach Legion Field. In the championship, the Patriots edged Do

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