The Worst Fans in America

Philadelphia has never been the most bucolic place to watch a football game. But this lively Wall Street Journal piece shows what new tricks stadium officials have devised to rein in naughty fans. The first line of defense is the ticket-taker, who may refer an inebriated fan to an off-duty police officer. (Full refunds are offered if you’re stopped at the gate.) Once inside, fans may send a text message outing rowdies by seat number. There is also a stadium control room with cameras that can zoom in on any section at any time, whether there’s a fight or a clean up after too many hot dogs. And if none of that works, there is always vigilante justice.