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The evidence is unmistakable why Arsenal are now countless pundits' favorites to secure the Premier League in the current campaign.

Consider their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those same matches last season.

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

Impenetrable Backline

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a crucial element why they are looking well positioned to at last realize their title goal.

They lead the league for shutouts (6), shots let in (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but rival sides still find it difficult to contain the Gunners from these chances.

They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals originating from these situations.

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

Championship Credentials

What is especially notable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also faced 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 continue triumphing, their historic competitors face difficulties. This marks the initial occasion 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 signings in search of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the business has so far yielded results in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and having the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across various contests

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