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The evidence is undeniable why Arsenal have become numerous fans' favorites to win the Premier League in the current campaign.

Consider their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace compared to those same matches last season.

The Gunners have beaten all of them this time around, but dropped 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race in the prior campaign.

Defensive Strength

Arsenal's defensive strength is a key reason why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title target.

They rank top for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The central defensive pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the best in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Dead-Ball Superiority

Their threat from set-pieces is highly documented, but rival sides still find it difficult to neutralize the Gunners from these chances.

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

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

Title Credentials

What is even more notable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents aren't faring so well. 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 pressure was on boss Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having spent around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in search of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far proven successful in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and boasting 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 all competitions

Former players and experts have described Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now performing with belief and purpose.