The arrival of Lee Johnson has helped the Black Cats climb the table and they currently sit fourth in the third tier, with games in hand on the sides above them as they look to return to the Championship.
And a six-game unbeaten run in all competitions has seen hopes of a top two finish raise – ahead of some key fixtures against the likes of Portsmouth and Accrington Stanley in coming weeks.
But the battle for the top two still very much open, who are the bookmakers tipping for promotion come the end of the season?
Scroll down and click through the pages as we take a look at who League One title sponsors SkyBet believe will gain promotion this season:
All odds are correct as of Thursday, March 4.
1. Gillingham
Steve Evans' side were priced at 40/1 in December, but have seen their odds drift in recent weeks. Current League One promotion odds: 250/1 Photo: George Wood
2. Plymouth Argyle
They may have secured some fine results of late - including that win at the Stadium of Light - but Plymouth are another side whose odds are drifting as the season continues. Current League One promotion odds: 200/1 Photo: Alex Davidson
3. Shrewsbury Town
Steve Cotterill's arrival has led to an upturn in results and has allowed the Shrews to climb away from dangers. The bookmakers think a late promotion push is unlikely, though. Current League One promotion odds: 150/1 Photo: Pete Norton
4. MK Dons
Another side in good form of late, a play-off push isn't completely off the cards as of yet. Current League One promotion odds: 80/1 Photo: Naomi Baker