I'm considering going a totally different route now with my wheels and going small instead of big... Would these fit?

Other option is 15x7 ET35. I suspect this is the safer option.

 

Considering these are 15x7.5 30ET on 205/50-15 I'd say 15x8 25ET will be cutting it close, especially if you want sticky 225 tires. I would go with 35ET to 38ET on a 15x8 wheel with 225/45-15 tires.
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...573-post5.html

 

I have 12s on my car. So yes, you should be able to fit anything under 15x12

 

The way I drive I would bust the wheel bearings, break every clip off my painted wheel arches and possibly lacerate my tires at full compression. Just not really safe for a spirited style of driving in my opinion. I just would not enjoy driving with so much precaution of damaging the car.