Sunderland have been aware of their play-off destiny for a while now, but manager Regis Le Bris will be upset with their recent streak of four consecutive defeats, and the French coach will not want to head into the post-season tournament in bad form.
QPR have experienced a tumultuous week off the field, but they were in decent form on the field until a 5-0 loss against Burnley, making this upcoming match intriguing.
Team news
Sunderland might decide to give some players a break in preparation for the play-offs, but considering their recent poor form, they may also choose to field a strong lineup in hopes of securing a morale-boosting victory.
Romaine Mundle, Eliezer Mayenda, and Dan Ballard are getting closer to a return for the Black Cats but may not be risked.
For QPR, Paul Smyth is suspended, while Emmerson Sutton could potentially make his first league start.
The stats
Don't overlook the possibility of a draw, as four of the last six meetings between these two teams have ended in a tie.
Ten out of QPR's last 13 matches have had over 2.5 goals.
Sunderland has only lost three home league games this season, but they have been defeated in their last two games at the Stadium of Light.
Prediction
Both teams enter this match with some uncertainties surrounding the club. Sunderland secured a play-off position some time ago, but their string of four losses in a row is disappointing for a team in the top six, even if they haven't had much at stake.
QPR manager Marti Cifuentes was placed on gardening leave this week following a disagreement with the club.
Assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm will be in charge of this match, and the Hoops will aim to recover from their recent 5-0 defeat to Burnley.
Prior to that match, both teams had scored in seven of their last eight games, and it's likely to happen again with Sunderland expected to improve from their recent poor performances and QPR having little to lose.