Alex Neil’s side took the lead in the 12th minute when Lynden Gooch’s cross was headed home by Jack Clarke.
Coventry saw more of the ball and were able to draw level six minutes from time when striker Viktor Gyokeres fired the ball home from the edge of the box.
Sunderland will now prepare for next weekend’s trip to Bristol City.
Our chief SAFC writer Phil Smith has dished out:
5. Dennis Cirkin - 6
Booked after almost letting Simms get inside him for a big shooting opportunity, but the free kick from close to the box was thankfully poor. Showed great energy to forward regularly in the second half, denied by a good Wilson save and then almost finding his target with one or two crosses. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Dan Neil - 7
An excellent performance for the most part, brave in his willingness to get forward and take players on. Just couldn’t find the killer cross, but in fairness with Coventry’s three central defenders it was a bit of a mismatch when he did put it in there. Strong start to the campaign. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
7. Pierre Ekwah - 7
Took an early yellow card stopping a counter so showed real maturity and craft to manage the game until he was replaced with twenty minutes to go. Made some good interceptions and tidy on the ball. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Abdoullah Ba - 5
Such a hard play to judge at times, has a good first touch and carries the ball long distances with such ease. Had some great moments but just can’t find the end product, spurning one fine chance to play in Jobe in the second half. 5 Photo: Frank Reid