Matthew Kitchen, NBC Olympics

(AP Photo/Joel Saget,Pool)

Those not paying attention probably assume British road cyclist Mark Cavendish is having an off year. After all, he’s been injured and ill, he’s only won a single stage at the Tour de France, and he’s been overshadowed at cycling’s top race by teammates Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome, who sit one-two respectively in the current standings.

But counting out Cavendish in London is a terrible, terrible idea. He may not be the odds-on favorite anymore (debatable), but the world champ is coming in to the Games fit, ready, and about 10 pounds lighter according to NBC’s James Jung. The relatively flat London course is tailor made for Cav’s sprinting style, and despite being well behind in the Tour de France, he’s pushed the pace this week, leading the field during the brutal Pyrenees climbing stages.

“He’ll be dangerous,” Jung adds, presumably not speaking of Cav’s criticized aggressive riding style.

The Brits proved their skill in Beijing when 13 of their 14 riders brought home medals. Cavendish will have the opportunity to win the host nation’s first gold in the time trial July 28, the first full day of the London Games.

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The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.