COLUMBIA, Mo. (First Alert 4) - Dale Shepard has watched Missouri football from the best seat in the house for 52 years.

The 80-year-old Mizzou graduate has served on the chain crew at Faurot Field since 1972, marking downs and distances for every home game. His longevity on the sidelines has made him a fixture at Tiger football games.

Shepard’s dedication to the Tigers has become a family affair. His son-in-law, Mike, joined the chain crew in 1993, learning the job from Shepard. The tradition continues with Shepard’s son Ryan, who also works on the crew.

In five decades on the sidelines, Shepard has witnessed Missouri football history, including moments fans would rather forget.

“The fifth down. Unfortunately, it happened,” Shepard said, referring to the controversial 1990 game agains

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