Seven points from a possible nine over the festive period and into the new year was a solid return for Tony Mowbray’s side.
Although many will feel they could have had more than a point at Blackpool, Sunderland head into the new year firmly into the mix for the playoff spots in what is proving to be a very close battle at the top of the table. Just seven points separate 3rd and 15th in the league just past the halfway mark of the campaign.
Here, we take a look at the latest supercomputer predictions, courtesy of FiveThirtyEight, to see where Sunderland have been predicted to finish the 2022/23 season.
Do any of these surprise you? Where do you think Sunderland will finish the season? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there:
1. Burnley
Predicted finish: 1st - Predicted points: 91 (+38 GD) - Chances of winning the Championship: 63% - Chances of being promoted: 90% - Chances of making the playoffs: 11% Photo: Nathan Stirk
2. Sheffield United
Predicted finish: 2nd - Predicted points: 86 (+32 GD) - Chances of winning the Championship: 30% - Chances of being promoted: 75% - Chances of making the playoffs: 26% Photo: Morgan Harlow
3. Middlesbrough
Predicted finish: 3rd - Predicted points: 73 (+17 GD) - Chances of winning the Championship: 2% - Chances of being promoted: 23% - Chances of making the playoffs: 48% Photo: Nigel Roddis
4. Millwall
Predicted finish: 4th - Predicted points: 72 (+12 GD) - Chances of winning the Championship: 2% - Chances of being promoted: 19% - Chances of making the playoffs: 43% Photo: Warren Little