The phrase "were in the saddle" is often used to depict someone being in control or in a position of authority. There are a variety of synonyms that can be used to convey the same meaning. For instance, "had the upper hand," "were in charge," or "were at the helm" are all phrases that suggest someone is leading the way. Similarly, "were calling the shots," "were the boss," or "were running the show" are all expressions that indicate control or authority. Using precise synonyms can help to add color and flair to any piece of writing, making it more engaging and enjoyable to read.