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It's clear why Arsenal are now numerous fans' favorites to claim the Premier League this season.

Consider their outcomes against Newcastle and Crystal Palace compared to those identical matches during the prior term.

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

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's backline resilience is a primary factor why they are seeming ready to finally fulfil their title target.

They stand first for clean sheets (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 possibly the best in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but rival sides still struggle to neutralize the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more than any other side, with 69% of their goals resulting from these situations.

"Arsenal can do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just afraid of them and it is wonderful to see."

Championship Claims

What is especially notable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they maintain victories, their historic competitors face difficulties. 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 scrutiny was on manager Mikel Arteta at the start, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in search of that long-awaited first title since 2004.

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

• Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games
• 385 minutes without allowing a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and pundits have described Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now functioning with conviction and resolve.