Corncob

I have used this technique for many years and have also done rabbits and dado's with it. Is it more dangerous, perhaps but it is a judgment call between the operator and his skill level with his machine/tool. At least with a table saw you have 3 solid control surfaces; the table, the fence and the miter gauge, I personally would use a longer backup on the miter gauge to prevent twisting.
Have you ever been on a construction site and watched an experienced carpenter do the same things freehand with a worm drive saw. The only control surfaces he has are his hand a sawhorse and his knee.
Confidence and experience and intimate knowledge of ones tooling has to be the deciding factor if you are in doubt .... DON'T DO IT..!

WOW, talk about 'audience participation'...you've nailed it with this one..