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It's obvious why Arsenal are now countless pundits' top picks to secure the Premier League in the current campaign.

Examine their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches last season.

The Gunners have overcome all of them this time around, but dropped 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race last season.

Impenetrable Rearguard

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

They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals allowed (3), shots faced (72), shots on target faced (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the strongest in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their danger from dead balls is highly documented, but rival sides still don't know how to contain the Gunners from these situations.

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."

Title Potential

What is especially remarkable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City on home turf - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their traditional rivals 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 head coach Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer additions in pursuit of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the business has so far proven successful in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and having the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

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

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