Nutley Defeats Bloomfield High In Overtime Thriller
A game-winning touchdown run in overtime secured a 20-17 victory for Nutley at Bloomfield's Foley Field.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Football
Nutley edged out the Bloomfield High School football team with a 20-17 win in overtime at Foley Field. The game-deciding score came on a 1-yard touchdown run by Aidan Rotbaum.
Why it matters
The narrow loss shifts the season standings for both programs during a competitive stretch of the fall schedule. Bloomfield now holds a 3-4 record, while Nutley improves to 2-5.
Michael Mickens led the offense for Bloomfield with 186 passing yards, while Christian Cradle recorded 120 receiving yards on four catches. Adam Nammoura accounted for the scoring in overtime with a 25-yard field goal.
The players
Michael Mickens
He is the quarterback for the Bloomfield High School football team who recorded 186 passing yards in the loss.
Christian Cradle
He is a wide receiver for Bloomfield who secured 120 receiving yards and caught a 20-yard touchdown pass.
Aidan Rotbaum
He is a player for Nutley who scored the game-winning 1-yard touchdown run in overtime.
Adam Nammoura
He is a kicker who successfully converted a 25-yard field goal during the overtime period.
The details
Bloomfield quarterback Michael Mickens recorded a 2-yard rushing touchdown and connected on a 20-yard pass to Christian Cradle during regulation. Despite the offensive production, Nutley ultimately claimed the win after all other scoring was confined to the first quarter.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: The teams faced off at Foley Field.
October 17, 2026: Bloomfield travels to play against Bayonne.
Season Trajectory
This loss significantly alters Bloomfield's position as they look to secure a postseason berth within the 2026 New Jersey high school football state playoff qualifying criteria. The team must now look to rebound in their upcoming away game to maintain competitive balance in their division standings.
Bloomfield's season record has dropped to 3-4, making their upcoming matchup in Bayonne critical for their playoff eligibility. Fans should monitor roster availability for the October 17 road game as the team attempts to improve their offensive efficiency.
The takeaway
Close overtime losses highlight the razor-thin margin for error in competitive high school football. The team must now focus on adjusting their red-zone execution before the next road game to keep their playoff aspirations alive.
What happens next
Bloomfield will play an away game against Bayonne on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on local sports, visit Bloomfield Football.
