[ajrenni]

I am no expert, but I like the flop check, not to gain information, but to set up a check-raise. If you lead out, callers are getting 9:1 at worst to call you with middle pair or a gutshot (like a 76 or a A2). If someone in late position bets, you can cut the odds dramatically. If someone to your left bets and it is one back to you, call the bet and try again on the turn (assuming you still like your hand). If there were fewer players on the flop, say only 4 opponents, I would bet out, since the odds are reduced and I would be afraid of a check-through. But with 8 players on the flop, the chances of it being checked through are minimal, and leading out does not do enough to protect the hand.