Here spread after corn harvest always works in early fall. The 2 times I had it flow on before harvest on corn and soybeans it worked better then spread after harvest.  

I prefer drilled over spread for what I graze since I want it thick and growing as quick as possible, some year I will spread it first then drill right after.  Everything else gets spread. 

The days after the rain matter about as much if not more for how good of a stand you will get with broadcast. Rain followed by fog or heavy dew the next 2 nights will get a good stand. 

This fall the rye came up on the gravel driveway. 

How far west are you?