At Miami University’s College of Engineering and Computing (CEC), we’ve got our own ‘Swoop Dogg ‘— a Boston Dynamics Spot robot that’s been impressing us with its tech prowess since 2022. Named through a campus poll, this robot is equipped with cameras, sensors, and the ability to navigate all kinds of terrain. While Swoop Dogg won’t be hitting the field, it will definitely be rooting for Miami at theSnoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Presented by Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop on Dec. 27, 2025. The RedHawks will face off against Fresno State in a highly anticipated match. Read on to learn more about this incredible robot and the connection between its name and the upcoming game — go RedHawks!
Swoop Dogg robot “drops it like its hot”
Swoop Dogg: ‘Who Am I (What’s My Name)?’
In February 2022, Miami University’s College of Engineering and Computingadded a cutting-edge tool to its robotics program with the acquisition of a Boston Dynamics Spot robot, thanks to funding from the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s RAPIDS grant. Originally named Spot by its creators, the robot was soon rebranded as “Swoop Dogg” after a campus-wide poll.
Swoop Dogg, a four-legged robot designed to navigate a variety of terrains, is equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and an Android-based tablet for easy operation. Its primary purpose is to assist in a wide range of tasks, including facility inspections, emergency response, and public safety operations. It can be used to inspect hazardous sites such as construction zones, nuclear plants, and chemical facilities, as well as gather real-time data in disaster scenarios. Its ability to navigate tough environments, capture 360-degree images, and deliver vital information makes it invaluable for industries like manufacturing, law enforcement, and border security.
But beyond its wide-ranging practical applications, Swoop Dogg serves as a key resource at Miami University, acting as an outreach tool for academic exploration and inspiring student innovation. Its capabilities have sparked some exciting developments within the department, inspiring projects that explore new and creative applications of robotics.
‘Still D.R.E.’: Driving Robotics Education
Swoop Dogg provides hands-on learning opportunities to Miami students and community.
Since its arrival at Miami University, Swoop Dogg has been an instrumental part of the College of Engineering and Computing’s educational outreach initiatives. As a hands-on tool, Swoop Dogg has introduced students — from K-12 visitors to university undergraduates — to the fascinating world of robotics. Through theCEC’s K-12 Outreach Program, Swoop Doggy Dogg has made complex technology accessible and engaging, sparking curiosity and creativity in young minds. Swoop Dogg has also become a symbol of innovation on campus, with students leveraging its advanced features for academic exploration. One notable example is a capstone design project in which a team of students created a 3D-printed “mini-Spot” based on Swoop Dogg’s design, showcasing the robot’s influence on future engineering projects.
Whether participating in educational events, marching in the annual Homecoming Parade, or getting festive for holiday events, Swoop Dogg has fostered a culture of hands-on learning and invention, proving that the possibilities for robotics extend far beyond traditional uses. Building on its role as an educational tool and community icon, Swoop Dogg has clearly embraced the innovative spirit of its namesake, with Snoop Dogg hosting the upcoming Arizona Bowl Presented by Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop, where Miami will compete.
Don’t ‘Drop It Like It’s Hot,’ Miami!
Miami University’s RedHawks are ready to bring their A-game to the highly anticipated Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowlon Dec. 27. The RedHawks will take on Fresno State in this exciting matchup at Casino Del Sol Stadium in Tucson, Arizona. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast live on The CW Network.
This bowl game is extra special as it marks Miami’s 17th all-time bowl appearance, continuing a six-year streak of postseason play. The RedHawks are only the second team in Arizona Bowl history to make back-to-back appearances, after a dominant win versus Colorado State in the 2024 Snoop Dogg Bowl. Miami, who made an impressive run as the Mid-American Conference (MAC) runner-up, finished with an overall 7-6 record. The RedHawks’ hard-earned 6-2 conference record led them to their third-straight MAC Championship Game this year. With this bowl appearance, the RedHawks will look to build on their legacy of bowl successes, which includes 9 wins and 7 losses in previous bowl games.
‘That’s How We Ballin’
After defeating Colorado State 43 to 17 at last year’s Snoop Dogg Bowl, Miami University is returning to Tucson with confidence. Last year’s viewership on the CW totaled 567,000, with a record in-person Arizona Bowl crowd of 40,076. You can view photos from last year’s iconic Bowl, including Snoop Dogg engaging with Miami University players and coaching staff, right here.Last year at the Snoop Dogg bowl, Miami University RedHawk offense scored five touchdowns on six of its second-half possessions in an exciting game that featured play-by-play commentary from Snoop Dogg on the CW. For highlights and stats, you can read a full recap of the game’s events here.
‘The Next Episode’: Airing on CW
Miami University has not only been making strides on the football field but also in the world of robotics and innovation. From Swoop Dogg’s high-tech feats in the CEC to the RedHawks’ pursuit of a second victory in the upcoming bowl game, it’s clear that both the robot and the football team share a spirit of excellence and determination. With Swoop Dogg cheering on the RedHawks from the sidelines (and maybe even sending some tech-savvy good vibes), Miami is ready to shine on the biggest stage. Whether it’s engineering a better future or executing a winning game plan, the RedHawks are all about pushing boundaries and making their mark. Be sure to tune in and watch the game live on The CW Network at 4:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 27, 2025, or stream it on CW’s digital platforms. The future looks bright for Swoop Dogg and Miami Football — let’s go RedHawks!
