Ohio State defensive back Shaun Wade knows the Buckeyes have plenty to prove against Clemson in the College Football Playoff.

When speaking with reports on Tuesday, Wade deflected a question about being named an All-American and expressed his focus on the Sugar Bowl and, ultimately, the National Championship.

“At the end of the day, I’m not really focused on that,” Wade said of the individual honor. “I’m focused on winning a national championship and this game right here.”

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Wade was also asked to “characterize” the brewing “rivalry” between Ohio State and Clemson. Wade’s response was blunt.

“I characterize it as we’ve never beat Clemson,” Wade said. “So we gotta beat them.”

Wade is correct — the Buckeyes have yet to defeat Clemson. The Tigers are 4-0 vs. Ohio State, including two recent wins in the College Football Playoff. Clemson also defeated Ohio State in the 2014 Orange Bowl and the 1978 Gator Bowl.

Wade was ejected for targeting in last season’s matchup vs. Clemson. The Tigers won that game 29-23 thanks to a 29-7 run after the targeting call.

Kick off for this year’s contest between the Tigers and Buckeyes is at 8 p.m. ET on Jan. 1, 2021.