I've read that in the state of Florida the rut can be different by up to 3 months in areas within 50 miles of each other. I have to say, Ive seen that come true as well. I have video of a buck I killed two weeks ago knocking down trees and making rubs and scrapesin September. He was chasing does when I shot him and it was December. Florida has the widest range for a rut of any state in the US. It can be 6 months difference from down south to up north in the panhandle. The best answer I have heard is that, as long as there are does still going into heat, he is still gonna be puffed up and ready to go. I guess it all depends on your area. INTEL is the key down here!!