In this case, the guy splitting 10s was making one of the worst possible plays, and all for the very remote possibility of getting an extra $25 if the dealer busts, and with the very likely outcome of costing the whole table their bets, including our hero with the large bet-
If I was there, after trying to politely explain in $ terms, why he shouldn't split, I might even offer to just give him the $25 to stand.
Blackjack success is about the proper play based on the math.
I have also been on the other side, at 3rd base with a minimum bet, and another player had started with a larger bet, with several splits/doubles and I had a hand that wasn't pat, and about 50/50 if better for me to hit or stand (dealer had a bust card up), and have deferred to the other player on the decision.