Matchsticks as Simile for Pollard's Leg
After breaking his leg, Pollard says it is so brittle the bones feel like matchsticks. He means that the bones are very fragile and will not stand up to a hard impact.
George's Jacket Sleeves as Simile for His Face
After winning the match race riding Seabiscuit against War Admiral, the announcer Clem McCarthy says Woolf's face is as white as the sleeves of his jacket. The jockey is pale from the exertion and stress.
Race as a Brawl
When Spec Richardson, Ligaroti's rider, repeatedly fouls George Woolf in an attempt to slow Seabiscuit down, the jockeys fight one another in what the author metaphorically refers to as "a back-alley brawl".
Seabiscuit as Cow Pony
An old Indian man remarks to Tom Smith that Seabiscuit looks like nothing more than a cow pony, with his shaggy appearance and small build. This pleases Smith, who likes the idea of his innocuous-looking horse outperforming all the others who are more highly rated.
Seabiscuit as Train Wreck
"The horse was a train wreck" is how the author describes Seabiscuit's emotional and psychological state upon arriving at the Howard barn. Seabiscuit is stressed out, skinny, and angry at everybody. His competitive instinct is directed entirely at his riders and trainers.
