Behind the eight ball

The phrase "behind the eight ball" is an idiom that means being in a difficult or disadvantageous position, usually due to a mistake or unfortunate circumstance. It originates from the game of pool (or billiards), where the eight ball is the last ball to be pocketed and losing control of it can put a player at a significant disadvantage. Thus, the phrase is used to describe being in a challenging situation with limited options or control.