The phrase 'where the rubber meets the road' is a metaphor for a situation where the outcome of an action is determined. In this case, the crossword solutions are related to the phrase as they refer to the parts of a tire. The word 'SOLE' refers to the bottom of the tire, which is the part that actually touches the road. The word 'TREAD' refers to the patterned surface of the tire that provides traction and grip on the road. Finally, the word 'TREADS' refers to the grooves in the TREAD that help to channel water away from the tire. Together, these three words represent the point where the rubber of the tire meets the road, thus providing the answer to the phrase.