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The evidence is unmistakable why Arsenal have become numerous fans' preferred choice to secure the Premier League this season.

Examine their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those same matches last season.

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

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are seeming ready to ultimately achieve their title target.

They stand first for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and xGA (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the best in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Dead-Ball Excellence

Their threat from set-pieces is widely recognized, but opposition teams still don't know how 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 coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just fearful of them and it is excellent to see."

Title Potential

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

While they maintain victories, their historic competitors 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 scrutiny was on manager Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in impressive fashion, with his side second top scorers in the league and boasting the most resilient defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and analysts have labeled Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now performing with conviction and purpose.