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There's little doubt why Arsenal are now countless pundits' top picks to win the Premier League during this term.

Look at their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches last season.

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

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are looking well positioned to ultimately achieve their title target.

They stand first for clean sheets (6), shots let in (3), attempts against (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and xGA (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Proficiency

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

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

Championship Pedigree

What is even more 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 ahead by four points at the top.

While they maintain victories, their historic competitors 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 pressure was on manager Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and possessing the most resilient defense, despite several injuries.

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

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