First-half goals from Grant Leadbitter, Charlie Wyke and Jack Diamond put Sunderland in command against the high-flying Imps, before Wyke added a second after the break to seal the win.
So who caught the eye at Sincil Bank? Scroll down and click through the pages as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings from the superb win in Lincolnshire:
1. Lee Burge
Something of an unsung hero in this emphatic win. Did well to slow Johnson down early on when a goal looked certain, and kicked very well when under pressure to help his team out. 8 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
2. Conor McLaughlin
Got forward intelligently and rarely troubled in defence. A good cross from the right helped force the second goal. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Callum McFadzean
Got away with one early error to allow Johnson to get free, but settled and looked comfortable thereafter, supporting McGeady well. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
4. Bailey Wright
His most accomplished performance in a few weeks, increasingly comfortable and confident as the game developed. 7 Photo: Frank Reid