Sodded areas should be killed out now while the grasses are actively growing. The use of a general herbicide such as Roundup is recommended. When ready to plant, remove the dead vegetation, then lightly work the surface. Firm the seed bed then broadcast seed. Very lightly rake the surface and firm once again to establish good seed to soil contact.
Wait to prepare a clean tilled seedbed until you are ready to plant to avoid germination of weeds or unwanted grasses.

To prevent premature germination in a fall planting, wait until after first hard frost to plant. It is best to plant with a cover crop such as wheat or annual ryegrass, or mulch with wheat straw. If using mulch, remove next spring near the growing season. Use cover crops sparingly to avoid competition problems next spring.