The phrase "fallback position" refers to a backup plan or alternative option that you can rely on if your original plan doesn't work out. It is a secondary strategy to fall back on when needed. Full definition
It is nice to see that the final fallback position of «global warming is good for you» now seems to be the dominant theme. (realclimate.org)
It's the kind of story Woody Allen writes best - examining the relationships between people - love, lust, hate, and how other people get used as fallback positions. (timeout.com)
So there are fallback positions if the market deals us a bad hand. (monevator.com)