You are a freshman. It’s too early to be projecting whether T20s are going to be a reasonable reach or not. Don’t even worry about that!
My dd’s school’s threshold for staying in honors was also an 85 so I don’t think your school’s policy is unreasonable. Schools set those thresholds because they want you to be successful. Her HS also limited the number of Honors and AP classes too. English and History were tied together as well. It’s a common practice.
When you are ready to apply to colleges, your GC will send a school report with your transcript so colleges will see your school’s policies.
If you rock english next year and get straight As, then maybe have your parents help advocate for trying H or AP english in 11th grade.
Just do your best in school and don’t worry about college now. It’s a long way off.