Dec. LSAT: How much of a disadvatage?

<p>I took the September LSAT and didn't score well at all. I plan on taking the December LSAT, but since admissions are rolling, how much of a disadvantage am I facing because of this? I've heard that your application needs to be pretty much stellar; mine won't be...~3.5 gpa (which will likely change because of lovely physical chemistry :( ), decent letters of rec, URM status. I'm applying to schools across the top 25 range and, of course, a few safety schools. My desired LSAT score is in the low 170s. Would that be enough considering that I would be applying late? I'd love to hear your opinions.</p>