play both sides against the middle

butter one's bread on both sides

To profit from two things at the same time, especially when those things seem contradictory or incompatible.

child's play

Something particularly easy or simple.

go play in the traffic

To go elsewhere and feel free to engage in risky behavior; to get lost.

grandstand play

A successful play or other manoeuvre during a sporting competition in which one or more players shows off unnecessarily in order to entertain or impress the spectators.

hold-up play

A play where an attacker retains possession of the ball, while the teammates can move up the field.

knock someone into the middle of next week

To thoroughly beat or trounce someone.

middle of nowhere

A very remote or secluded area; a nondescript place lacking population, interesting things, or defining characteristics.

middle of the road

Having a centrist attitude or philosophy; not extreme, especially politically.