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It's obvious why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' top picks to claim the Premier League during this term.

Consider their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent matches in the previous campaign.

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

Impenetrable Defense

Arsenal's backline resilience is a primary factor why they are looking well positioned to at last realize their title ambition.

They lead the league for shutouts (6), goals allowed (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (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 Mastery

Their danger from dead balls is well known, but competing clubs still find it difficult 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 originating 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 wonderful to see."

Championship Pedigree

What is particularly impressive about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City at home - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they maintain victories, 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 head coach Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in pursuit of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the business has so far yielded results in remarkable manner, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and having the strongest defense, despite several injuries.

• Shutouts in three consecutive Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests

Former players and pundits have described Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now operating with confidence and resolve.