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It's evident why Arsenal are now numerous fans' favorites to win the Premier League during this term.

Consider their performances against Fulham and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches last season.

The Gunners have overcome all of them during this campaign, but dropped 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race last season.

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to ultimately achieve their title goal.

They rank top for clean sheets (6), shots let in (3), shots faced (72), shots on target faced (19) and xGA (5.3).

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the best in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their danger from dead balls is highly documented, but rival sides still don't know how to neutralize the Gunners from these situations.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, several additional than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just afraid of them and it is wonderful to see."

Title Credentials

What is even more notable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City on home turf - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they keep winning, their traditional rivals face difficulties. This marks the premier instance at this juncture of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The pressure was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in search of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far proven successful in style, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in three consecutive Premier League games
• 385 minutes without conceding a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and pundits have characterized Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now performing with conviction and determination.