New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower has admitted that his side's defense plan to be physical against the Denver Broncos.

Bill Belichick's side face off against the Broncos at Gillette Stadium in the battle for the top seed in the AFC, and the 24-year-old feels that his side will have to be aggressive to knock Peyton Manning and his offense off rhythm.

Hightower told reporters: "Definitely want this to be a physical game on our part. They have a lot of big receivers, a lot of quick guys.

"The one thing we are going to have to do that I think we are pretty good at is being aggressive. Whether it is jamming or they have a lot of crossers, so just being aggressive and coming down on that.

"Peyton [Manning] is going to get those guys the ball no matter how or when or whether they are double-covered or whatever. We are just going to have to do a real good job on the line of scrimmage and just be aggressive with these guys."

The Patriots have a 6-2 record this season going into the matchup against the Broncos.