'People are intimidated' - why 'unstoppable force' Arsenal are the side to defeat.

It's clear why Arsenal are now numerous fans' preferred choice to secure the Premier League during this term.

Look at their performances against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those same matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have overcome all of them in the current season, but surrendered 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 at last realize their title goal.

They lead the league for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Mastery

Their effectiveness from free kicks is widely recognized, but competing clubs still don't know how to contain the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, several additional 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 wonderful to see."

Title Potential

What is especially impressive about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also encountered 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 continue triumphing, 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 scrutiny was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having spent around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in search of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the business has so far yielded results in remarkable manner, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games
• Over six hours without letting in a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across various contests

Former players and experts have labeled Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now functioning with confidence and purpose.