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I forwarded the question about why the chains switch sides to an NFL HL. This is his reply.
The reason I was told is so you don't have to listen to the same guy the whole game. Don't forget we have chains with the LJ as well (auxiliary chains). However, when we change at the half, the main chain guys go with me (HL) and the auxiliary guys go with the LJ. The chain crews are different. I have the traditional box, chain crew, and clip guy, along with the "Penalty Card". We use 2 clips, in case we have to relocate to the previous spot due to a replay reversal. The Auxiliary guys on the LJs side have a "Drive Start" stick that stays where the drive started, a box that mirrors the LOS and down indicator on my side and a Front stake for the Line to gain (along with a strip of orange plastic so the runner can see the LTG if the stick is moved to avoid contact.) In college, some conferences (usually run by NFL guys, C-USA, MWC, Big 12, etc) have the HL/LJ flip at half time. This history of keeping the chains opposite the press box is: when you film FROM the press box, it is easier for coaches to see the down/distance from across the field.
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