Using data from WyScout, we've examined some of the key performance data in the third tier to see how Sunderland compare to their promotion rivals.
Scroll down and click through the pages to see whether Phil Parkinson's side are on a par with the top eight - or lagging behind in their quest for promotion:
9. PASS ACCURACY
Another area where Sunderland's stats stand up to scrutiny, with a passing accuracy of 78.1% only beaten by Oxford and Coventry City. Still, it's all about what you do with the ball. Photo: Other
10. YELLOW CARDS
Ill-discipline has been a problem for the Black Cats this term, who have picked up more cautions than any other side in the third tier. Indeed, they have 31 more yellow cards than table-topping Coventry City. Worrying. Photo: Other
11. TOUCHES IN THE BOX PER GAME
An interesting statistic, and one in which Sunderland rank comparatively well. Their average of 16.19 touches in the box per game is better than a number of their play-off rivals - but still some way behind the best in the third tier. Photo: Other