1. I think the poker "play" is the draw for most poker players who watch poker on TV. I don't think it would be hard at all to comment on poker for 2 hours. You're dealing with good players, a hole-card cam, and a load of poker knowledge. Couple that with the green light to be a cynical ass, and it's great TV.
2. I don't know about that. I don't think they tell them what to say, but I think they
do tell them what to focus on.