Containing Peyton: Patriots solid secondary seeking another win over Broncos, Manning

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Griff Whalen (17) is stopped by New England Patriots cornerback Kyle Arrington (25) and Patriots safety Steve Gregory, below, during the first half of an AFC divisional NFL playoff football game in Foxborough, Mass., Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia) (The Associated Press)

New England Patriots cornerback Alfonzo Dennard (37) intercepts a pass intended for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver LaVon Brazill (15) during the first half of an AFC divisional NFL playoff football game in Foxborough, Mass., Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum) (The Associated Press)

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The Denver Broncos tried to beat the New England Patriots less than two months ago by running the ball. It didn't work.

With a berth in the Super Bowl at stake in Sunday's rematch, Peyton Manning figures to throw more to his three outstanding wide receivers. So Patriots safety Steve Gregory says the pass defense will have to be at the top of its game.

It's been pretty good lately. The Patriots intercepted Andrew Luck four times in last Saturday night's 43-22 divisional-round win over Indianapolis. And in their next to last regular-season game, they picked off Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco three times in a 41-7 rout of Baltimore.

The Patriots play in Denver in the AFC championship game on Sunday.

Online: AP NFL website: http://www.pro32.ap.org