Olympics 2012 Schedule: US Men's Gymnastics Look to Continue Medal Streak

The United States men's gymnastics team has not won gold in the team competition since 1984, but they should remain competitive once again this year.

Unlike the women's team that is always in the conversation to win the gold, the American men have struggled to simply reach the podium. However, with a silver in 2004 and a bronze in 2008, the team has a short streak going that they are looking to continue.

They certainly are not short on talent. The squad features some of the best gymnasts in the world, and they can use their specialties to help on the scoreboard.

The team is led by 20-year-old Danell Leyva. The Cuban-American is one of the best in the world in the high bar and parallel bars, winning the gold in the latter at the 2011 Tokyo World Championships.

John Orozco finished fifth in the all-around at those championships, and he can be useful in any event. In addition, Jonathan Horton and Jake Dalton return from the team that won bronze.

The only newcomer is Sam Mikulak, who won the all-round NCAA Championship in 2011.

Unfortunately for the U.S., there is some fierce competition standing in their way. China and Japan come into the competition as the heavy favorites after dominating the Olympic scene for the last 12 years. The two Asian countries also finished in the top spots at the latest World Championships.

A poor qualifying round by China has instilled some doubts, but the athletes should be ready to perform in the final on Monday.

In addition, Germany, Russia and Ukraine will also push for a spot on the medal stand.

The American team will be facing an uphill battle this week. Much of their competition is more accomplished and come into the Games with bigger fanfare. However, this squad still has plenty of talent.

With some quality performances in key situations, the United States team can pull off a big upset early on in these Olympic Games. 

Full Men's Gymnastics Schedule (via NBC Olympics)

July 30: Men's Team Final (11:30 a.m. ET)

August 1: Men's Individual All-Around (11:30 a.m. ET)

August 5: Men's Floor Exercise - Final (9 a.m. ET), Men's Pommel Horse - Final (10:41 a.m. ET)

August 6: Men's Rings - Final (9 a.m. ET), Men's Vault - Final (10:41 a.m. ET)

August 7: Men's Parallel Bars - Final (9 a.m. ET), Men's Horizontal Bar - Final (10:37 a.m. ET)

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