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The proof is unmistakable why Arsenal have become countless pundits' top picks to claim the Premier League during this term.

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

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

Defensive Strength

Arsenal's backline resilience is a key reason why they are seeming ready to finally fulfil their title ambition.

They lead the league for unbreached games (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (5.3).

The central defensive pairing 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.

Dead-Ball Excellence

Their effectiveness from free kicks is widely recognized, but opposition teams still don't know how to contain the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have notched 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 excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just wary of them and it is excellent to see."

Title Credentials

What is particularly impressive about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also faced 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 are struggling. 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 expectations was on manager Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer signings in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far paid off in remarkable manner, with his side second top scorers in the league and possessing the tightest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Shutouts in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without conceding a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions

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