Penn State football QB commit replaced as starter at high school powerhouse

A prospective member of the Penn State football program is experiencing a slight setback at the onset of his high school senior season. Bekkem Kritza, the Nittany Lions’ quarterback commitment for the 2025 recruiting cycle, has now assumed the backup role for Miami Central as the Rockets’ season gets underway.

Kritza entered the year as the starter, leading Miami Central at the Miami Super Showdown and in a Week 1 loss against Lakeland. However, the Rockets made a switch in Week 2, opting for a more mobile option in Anthony McQueen.

In a 54-7 win over Edison, McQueen went 5-8 for 147 yards and two touchdowns, adding another 44 yards and a score on the ground. Bekkem Kritza played in the second half, also throwing a touchdown pass.

“He gives us a different dynamic, as well,” Miami Central coach Jube Joseph told David Wilson of the Miami Herald. “Kritza is still a great kid. Both those guys are Division I football players, but this week we just felt as if our offense needed a little spunk. It’s talent all around at Miami Central, and if you can play, you’re going to play.”

Kritza also threw a touchdown in Friday’s blowout win over Booker T. Washington. But McQueen stole the show with over 300 passing yards and six total touchdowns.

“He’s done exactly what we’ve asked him to do since we put him in there,” Joseph said of McQueen to the Miami Herald’s Andre Fernandez. “For him, the game is already won on Sunday in terms of preparation, and he keeps doing the right things. He and Bekkem are both supporting each other.”

On the field, the change seems to have gone smoothly. However, off the field, controversy arose last week when reports surfaced that Kritza intended to transfer from Miami Central midseason. The Kritza family has since denied those reports, however.

The only quarterback in the Nittany Lions’ class, Bekkem Kritza is the No. 38 prospect at his position in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Penn State football currently has the No. 16 recruiting class in the country.

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