I think the simple answer is that the word fan is a derivative from the word 'fanatic'. Wikipedia lists the definition of fanatic as: "a belief or behavior involving uncritical zeal... or with an obsessive enthusiasm for a pastime or hobby. " Football fans a super passionate because the games are typically once per week.So unlike other team sports where games are played throughout the week, football games have that natural build-up of intensity because you have an entire week to wait for the next one.
As for their perceived defensiveness for their given team, I think that is equally prevalent in all sports, not just football. But at the end of the day, it's most likely because the team represents either their university or college, or their with the pros their community, so there is a large sense of pride that evolves.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.