This is the first episode where one of the Mavericks quotes "old Pappy" to make a point. Pappy's point was "A faint heart never filled a flush."
Per the title, 'Edmond Hoyle' is a writer best known for his works on the rules and play of card games. The phrase "according to Hoyle" came into the language as a reflection of his authority on the subject.
Originally, Diane Brewster 's appearance as Samantha Crawford was supposed to be a one time thing. The character was a hit with fans, who wrote into the studio asking them to bring her back. The producers obliged, and brought her back for three additional episodes.
The 1876 Book of Hoyle does not include a game of poker, 5 card or stud or otherwise. Poker is called "Bluff". It does not include straights, so Crawford would still win.