How to play Big Pairs - Seven Card Stud Poker

The big pairs are AA-JJ. These hands should almost always be played. The only times to fold them are when you are fairly certain that you are up against a bigger pair, or when your cards are dead (both of the other cards are already out). A pair of Jacks can also be folded when you have a bad kicker to your pair and there are many big cards left to act behind you. Another occasion when it is correct to muck your big pair is when the pot has been raised and re-raised by players with bigger upcards than your pair. For example, you hold a pair of Jacks and a King raises only to be re-raised by an Ace before it is your turn to act. Remember that a two-flush and/or a two-straight to go with your pair give additional value to the hand. Before folding your big pairs, always consider the action and the opponents giving the action. If one of your opponents pairs their door card, and you don't have a four-flush or a four-straight, it is usually correct to fold your big pair.