I would think that if what you submit is a complete work (as in a WB, all items skinned and all features available included) that it wouldn't make a difference.
A skin showing the talent of the submitting skinner to come up with a new look or new options or use of functions is always going to catch the eye of the judges. It won't make a difference if you submit early or at the deadline. Well, at least that's my opinion.
