Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy reveals offense's 'secret sauce'

Therefore, McCarthy, who took over play-calling after former OC Kellen Moore mutually parted ways with Dallas, isn't making his players learn a new, complex system. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott recently told Yahoo Sports' Jori Epstein the offense will only change "20-30 percent."

The main offensive changes center around improving pass-protection for Prescott. According to ESPN's Todd Archer, McCarthy said, "My goal is to have Dak play 20 games next season."

Depending on playoff seeding, Dallas would make its first NFC championship or Super Bowl appearance for the first time since 1995 if Prescott played that many games. 

Last season, Prescott played in only 12 regular-season games after suffering a fractured right thumb in Week 1 against Tampa Bay. The O-line's pass-blocking was subpar. It was 28th in pass-blocking win rate, per ESPN analytics. 

The injury and the amount of pressure Prescott faced possibly contributed to his interception problem. Prescott threw a career-high 15 interceptions, which tied for the league lead. 

Aside from the interceptions, Dallas offense ranked among the league's best. Last season, it was 10th in total yards and third in scoring. Pro Bowl WR CeeDee Lamb tied for fifth in receptions, and Pro Bowl RB Tony Pollard tied for 10th in rushing TDs. 

Dallas improved the elite unit by trading for WR Brandin Cooks. Cooks and former WR Brandon Marshall are the only players with a 1,000-yard receiving season with four teams. 

McCarthy is making the right choice by not putting too much on players' plates. He already has a good recipe.