SEC schools hear fans frustrated over cell service

- Christina's Blog

By TERESA M. WALKER
AP Sports Writer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - A popular question asked during SEC games this season has been: Do you have any service?

The increasing number of fans unhappy their smartphones and tablets aren't working is a priority for the Southeastern Conference. The need for more bandwidth at stadiums is a hot-button issue being studied by a fan experience group approved by league presidents and chancellors earlier this year.

The league is trying to take action before fans do.

Alabama fan Chad Gilbert says he's resigned himself to the fact that checking scores or social media isn't possible during games. The frustrating in-game experience makes him want to stay home.

The challenge for the SEC is coming up with a uniform solution. Each school has individual deals with wireless providers, so reception varies from stadium to stadium.