I think the wheel fitment thing that you mentioned started in drifting. If it protrudes and you crash, you hit the tire/wheel and hope it cushions the rest of the things you could break when you hit. Not sure though.
To me that sounds like if your wheel protrudes, the drivetrain its bolted to could take more damage rather than a body panel. I'd rather have the wheels absorb less damage.
^^ Yeah, I drew a frame of a man running on each fan blade. That is him running at idle