8 France

Story lines: Trio of possible judo winners includes 6'8", 306-pound Teddy Riner (above, right), who continues his domination of the sport (six consecutive world titles) at age 23; sprint hope is Christophe Lemaitre, who has broken 10 seconds for 100 meters; Yannick Agnel, 20, could shock U.S. favorite Ryan Lochte in the 200 freestyle.

Don't miss: Pole vaulter Renaud Lavillenie, two-time European champ, who has a best of 19' 91/2."

Hot button: Trash-talking 4 × 100 relay swimmers from '08 still smarting from Jason Lezak's shut-'em-up U.S. anchor leg.

Outlook: Veteran team could surpass modest total of seven golds in Beijing.