Scout, I understand the point you are trying to make, but that is factually incorrect. In 1997-98, Florida State finished 6-10 in the ACC (37.5%) in the ACC but still received an at-large bid. They even won a game in the NCAA Tournament.
That's probably the only one. Under 50%, quite a few, but can't recall any others under 40%.
I do agree the Gophers aren't going anywhere (NCAA) unless they get to 9-9, and that seems unlikely at this point given our remaining schedule and propensity for tight games. Even if we split all these close games (except for OSU, they'll kill us), that's going to leave the Gophers short, barring a miracle run in Indy, which should never be counted on.
The best or above-average teams get their (NCAA) work done prior to their conference tournaments. Gophers need to "hop to it" in Lincoln on Sunday, then find a way to beat 2 or 3 teams at home that are equal to or better than them (Bucky, Buckeyes, Sparty, IU).