In order for any such software to work, it must be programmed to VIPR at say MCT -15 minutes or maybe MCT -10 minutes for a potential incoming connecting passenger. Not MCT -1 minute.
Any tighter than MCT-10 and the software must take into account gate proximity. The software is only good if both the MCT miss and the gate arrival miss (under T-15) are BOTH certain based on the data on hand.
Yeah, DOT will not look kindly on a 1 minute MCT miss but present at gate and in line at T-20 and I don't think DL wants that kind of customer service headache.
In the case of the OP, the plane went out with empty seats so that is inexplicable to say the least unless there was a storm approaching that could cause a ground stop 10 minutes later and the GA got permission to close early.