From Swoop Dogg to Snoop Dogg: CEC’s Robot Gears Up for the Gin and Juice Bowl
December 19, 2024 | Courtney Russell
By: Mandy Holliday, senior at Miami University
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 the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Presented by Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop on Dec. 28, 2024. The RedHawks will face off against Colorado 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: ‘Who Am I (What’s My Name)?’
In February 2022, Miami University’s College of Engineering and Computing added 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
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 the CEC’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 Bowl on Dec. 28. The RedHawks will take on Colorado State University in this exciting matchup at Arizona 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 16th all-time bowl appearance, continuing a five-year streak of postseason play. Miami, who made an impressive run as the Mid-American Conference (MAC) runner-up, finished with an overall 8-5 record and capped off a thrilling seven-game winning streak. The RedHawks’ hard-earned 7-1 conference record tied them with Ohio for the top spot in the MAC. With this bowl appearance, the RedHawks will look to build on their legacy of bowl successes, which includes 8 wins and 7 losses in previous bowl games.
‘That’s How We Ballin’
Having just wrapped up a remarkable season, Miami University is entering the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl with confidence. Quarterback Brett Gabbert, a sixth-year senior and Miami’s all-time leader in total offense, has been at the helm of Miami’s offensive powerhouse this season. Gabbert threw for 2,737 yards and 21 touchdowns, cementing his legacy at Miami and guiding the team through a successful season. Running back Keyon Mozee also had a standout season, rushing for 1,073 yards and becoming the 23rd player in program history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season.
The defense has been just as impressive, with Matt Salopek leading the charge with 113 tackles and Brian Ugwu contributing 14 tackles for loss, including 7.5 sacks. Salopek’s remarkable career milestone makes him the first player in Miami history to record four 100-tackle seasons. Miami’s defense was a key factor in the team’s success, with the RedHawks allowing just 15 points per game in MAC play, ranking them first in scoring defense for the regular season. With such a well-rounded roster, Miami is ready to take on Colorado State and make their mark in the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl.
‘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 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. 28, 2024, or stream it on CW’s digital platforms. The future looks bright for Swoop Dogg and Miami Football — let’s go RedHawks!