Should I split 9s against a dealer’s 7?

[Jonah]

Yes, you should split 9s against a dealer's 7. This is a standard play in basic blackjack strategy. Here's why:
When you split a pair of 9s, you create two hands, each starting with a 9. In blackjack, 9s are considered strong cards because they have a high chance of forming a strong total when combined with other cards. Against a dealer's 7, splitting your 9s gives you a better chance to beat the dealer, as you could potentially form a total of 19 or higher on either hand, which is strong against the dealer’s 7.
A dealer’s 7 is considered a "weak" upcard because the dealer must hit until they reach at least 17, meaning they are more likely to bust if their hand doesn’t improve. By splitting, you take advantage of the potential to build two strong hands, maximizing your chances of winning.
So, in short, splitting 9s against a dealer’s 7 is the optimal play and generally the best move to make in this situation.

 

[CR7]

Splitting 9s against a dealer's 7 is a commonly debated topic among blackjack players. Some players argue that keeping the 18 you have with two 9s is a strong hand and should not be split, while others advocate for splitting the 9s to take advantage of the dealer's weak upcard. Let's break down the different perspectives:

1. Keeping the 18: Some players prefer to stand on a total of 18 because it is a strong hand in blackjack. With two 9s, you already have a total of 18, which is likely to beat the dealer's 7 if they don't improve their hand. By standing on 18, you avoid the risk of potentially creating weaker hands by splitting.

2. Splitting the 9s: On the other hand, splitting 9s against a dealer's 7 is supported by basic strategy principles. By splitting, you have the opportunity to improve your hand by potentially drawing high-value cards like 10s or Aces. Additionally, the dealer's weak upcard increases the chances of them busting, giving you an advantage by potentially winning with two strong hands.

Ultimately, the decision to split 9s against a dealer's 7 comes down to personal preference and risk tolerance. Both standing on 18 and splitting the 9s have their own merits and drawbacks. If you choose to split, make sure you are comfortable with potentially creating weaker hands and understand the risks involved.

In conclusion, while splitting 9s against a dealer's 7 is generally recommended in basic strategy, the decision ultimately depends on your playing style and risk appetite. Consider the potential outcomes and choose the option that aligns with your blackjack strategy.