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There's little doubt why Arsenal have become numerous fans' favorites to win the Premier League during this term.

Examine their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those equivalent matches last season.

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

Impenetrable Defense

Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title goal.

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

The defensive partnership 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.

Set-Piece Expertise

Their effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but rival sides still don't know how to neutralize the Gunners from these chances.

They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals resulting 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."

Title Claims

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

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents aren't faring so well. This marks the premier instance 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 manager Mikel Arteta at the outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer signings in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far proven successful in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and having the most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Shutouts in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without letting in a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across all competitions

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