Our normal fall seeding time frame is Mid-August through the first week in September, so if seed is sown now, we are gambling that it will be old enough and be mature to survive the winter. Sunny areas have a better chance of surviving than a shady one. I would not bother with straw this time of year. Keep the soil damp, but not waterlogged. Depending on the seeds used, emergence can be as little as 4-5 days or 10-14 days. Sod can be laid yet for next several weeks. Keep it well watered to encourage immediate rooting.
