Rich,  
I am with  you 110%.   I do NOT measure unless *I* think it is required.  It must be an old wives' tale that any request for a measurement must be granted.  Last night we had a situation where the L had a spot and his foot was about 4" beyond the lead stake.  I've got a first down!   He was standing a coupl

 e of feet inbounds but was in very close proximity to the stake.  No problem, FD!