The $2/$5 rock who calls your 3-bet and checks back the flop in position is not being passive. He's controlling the pot and not putting money in bad spots. Don't assume the check means weakness.

Why they do it

$2/$5 rocks are more disciplined than their $1/$2 counterparts. Checking back in position after calling a 3-bet is a real move - they're keeping the pot small with a hand they're not confident playing a big pot with yet.

The adjustment

Check the turn sometimes with medium strength hands when he checks back the flop. Let him define his hand before you keep firing. You might be ahead, you might not - but you don't need to find out expensively.

What it's worth

Barreling into a $2/$5 rock who was just controlling the pot costs you real money when he finally raises. Slow down and let the hand develop.