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It's evident why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' favorites to claim the Premier League in the current campaign.

Consider their performances against West Ham and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches in the previous campaign.

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

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are looking well positioned to ultimately achieve their title target.

They stand first for shutouts (6), shots let in (3), opposition efforts (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 recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Expertise

Their danger from dead balls is widely recognized, but competing clubs still don't know how to neutralize the Gunners from these situations.

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 perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just fearful of them and it is excellent to see."

Championship Claims

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 at home - and are still ahead by four points at the top.

While they maintain victories, their traditional rivals face difficulties. This marks the premier instance at this juncture 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 additions in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the business has so far paid off in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and having the tightest defense, despite several injuries.

• Unbreached games in three straight Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions

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