Actually, I have convinced myself that BIAB has been detrimental to my playing over the past years. Too much reliance on the program and not forcing myself to do my part.
I can understand what you mean, but I think it's misconstrued. There is such a thing as rubato playing or free timing. I prefer playing some jazz ballads solo, I can pause, steep up or slow down as I please. Also a band can hide a bit of sloppy playing (to a degree, if it must).
However, you need BOTH SKILLS
Despite its many foibles bugs etc - and I am a critic. BIAB is simply the BEST

it just needs to get better...
Also: Compare the price of new real tracks with buying a stack of play along songs. I buy simply for the new RTs.
Z