I understand the general approach, but I'm afraid that I'm getting bogged down in the details.

In daredevil car races, there are moments when the drivers place themselves between the devil and the deep blue sea, trying to take the lead.

Sensing danger, he ran away.

That company is on the rocks because of bad debts.

Between a rock and a hard place.

Tom is caught between a rock and a hard place.

We're up against the wall.