In general terms , Order of preference to deer is 1. Oats 2. Wheat 3. Rye

The order of winter hardiness is reverse 1. Rye 2. Wheat 3. Oats

Proper soil amendments, fertilizer, rainfall will make the winter grains more palatable too. In the far north, Winter Rye stays greener longer in the fall, and greens up quicker in the spring. Winter Wheat is a good alround bet, but oats would be better in the deep south. JMHO