Systems and methods can use client-side video buffer occupancy for enhanced quality of experience in a communication network. The systems and methods provided herein can drive changes in the communication system using control responses. Example control responses include responses for scheduling of packets under capacity constrained conditions. An access node, such as a base station, may transmit video from a server to a client in a user device. The access node can estimate client-side video buffer occupancy and predict video playback stalls. The client-side video buffer occupancy can be estimated by emulating behavior of the client. The buffer occupancy can be used to enhance quality of experience for the user. For example, when the buffer occupancy is low, the access node may increase scheduling priority of packets conveying the video.