@BoBo1946 & @Jeruba:I quote myself, “the first thing that came to mind was “don’t throw me under the bus”, which has a completely different meaning”
Example:
I go fishing. I catch a magical talking fish.
Me: I despise fish. I’m going to fry you up and eat you!!!
Fish: Phewww! I was worried there for a second!
Me: Huh? What are you talking about? I’m going to eat you!
Fish: I know, but I’d rather that then drown. I’ve an awful fear of water!
Me: Really? Well take this then! [throws fish back in water]
The above is an example of “don’t throw me in the briar patch”.
Example two:
John and Ed go to class.
Teacher: We are going to give out massive amounts of chocolate to everyone here, but first we need a volunteer to give his organs to science to help pay for it.
John: Ed will do it! He’s always saying how science is his favorite subject!
Teacher: Excellent! Ed, see me after class.
Ed: Dude! You totally threw me under the bus there!
John: [grinning] I know.
The above is a slightly ludicrous example of “threw you under the bus”.
Does that make better sense?
-Dan