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The proof is unmistakable why Arsenal have become countless pundits' preferred choice to secure the Premier League this season.

Consider their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those equivalent matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have overcome all of them this time around, but dropped 10 points across those games as they fell away in the title race previously.

Defensive Dominance

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are seeming ready to finally fulfil their title goal.

They stand first for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), attempts against (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the finest in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Expertise

Their effectiveness from free kicks is well known, but opposition teams still don't know how to stop the Gunners from these chances.

They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more than any other side, with 69% of their goals resulting from these situations.

"Arsenal can do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just fearful of them and it is wonderful to see."

Title Credentials

What is especially impressive about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they maintain victories, their traditional rivals are struggling. This marks the first time at this stage of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The expectations was on head coach Mikel Arteta at the outset, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far yielded results in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and possessing the most resilient defense, despite several injuries.

• Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without conceding a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and experts have characterized Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now functioning with belief and determination.