when is the rut down south?

I believe it ended yesterday.    (sorry, I could not help myself.)

It seems it is just getting warmed up in the middle and northern states with lots of activity.  Those "experts" say it gets going good 7-10 days following the full moon (which was on Oct. 26).  That means Nov. 6 until Nov. twenty something.  Your area should be close to that I think.  At least try to be in the woods on November 11 and November 14.

in my part of texas its usally in december

would it be alright to try rattling or trying a can call this time of year?

Sure Ian, Just be aware that it is possible to scare off smaller bucks with aggressive rattling and some does will spook upon hearing an estrous bleat.   Good Luck