LONDON - Jeff Demps thought his Olympic dreams were shot once he missed US qualifications in the 100-meter dash back in late June.

The Florida speedster got a reprieve for Team USA when Mike Rogers backed out after breaking his foot just before the start of the London Summer Games.

Now the former Gator football star, who thought he'd be the team's biggest cheerleader, will suit up to hopefully be the team's biggest spark out of the blocks.

Demps will compete in the lead leg of the men's preliminary 4x100m relay on Friday.

Demps has experience in the event, racing with the baton in the indoor and outdoor seasons at UF.