Papa John's bacon and Wisconsin cheese sticks 

Playoff football provides foodservice operators an opportunity to score extra points with innovation. Papa John’s raised the stakes on its cheese sticks.

The company recently unveiled its stuffed Cheesesticks, which consumers can order with either bacon or more cheese. The limited-time offer features hand-tossed dough topped with a layer of Papa John’s garlic sauce. The dough is folded and stuffed with cheeses, then finished with savory toppings. The Bacon Cheddar Cheesesticks are layered with hickory-smoked bacon, melted cheddar and mozzarella, then baked.

“Choice and variety are important to our customers, and our new stuffed Cheesesticks give fans two unique, delicious options that we are confident they will love,” Robert Thompson, senior vice president of marketing, said in a statement. “A new take on our signature Papa John’s Cheesesticks, they are stuffed with game day favorites including hickory-smoked bacon and real Wisconsin cheese. This season, whether you’re gathering to ring in the New Year or watching a big game, our new Stuffed Cheesesticks are the perfect way to elevate your next home game.”