Verizon releases network usage stats for the first half of the Super Bowl

As the gun sounded marking halftime of Super Bowl 49 (with the game tied at 14), Verizon released some information pertaining to the use of its data network during the first 30 minutes of game play. The use of Big Red's network obviously peaked after scoring plays and turnovers as viewers used their phone or tablet to send messages about the game to friends and family using social media.

According to Verizon, its network saw a 35% jump in usage following the Seahawks' first quarter interception of Tom Brady. The first touchdown of the night, scored by New England, resulted in a 41% spike in data usage. Seattle's tying TD produced a more modest 21% jump, and New England's score before halftime saw data usage rise by 20%. Seattle's tying TD before half had everyone running to their phone or tablet as data use popped 30%.

But Katy Perry and the halftime show really had Big Red's network popping as data usage shot up 60% during intermission. Verizon also says that 60% of wireless users at the game are using a Verizon branded device.

Considering that the game is going down to the wire, we look forward to seeing the second half data stats from the nation's largest carrier.

source: Verizon