'People are afraid' - the reasons 'powerhouse' Arsenal have become the side to defeat.

The proof is unmistakable why Arsenal are now many people's favorites to secure the Premier League this season.

Look at their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those same matches during the prior term.

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

Defensive Strength

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

They stand first for shutouts (6), goals allowed (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The central defensive pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the finest in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Expertise

Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but rival sides still don't know how to stop the Gunners from these situations.

They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals originating from these situations.

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

Championship Credentials

What is even more notable about Arsenal's beginning 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 continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents 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 beginning, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far yielded results in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and possessing the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests

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