If the dems want to play it that way I say let them. I'd make them filibuster the correct way, 24/7 until the vote is cast. The filibuster weapon is only good because the other side fears it. I say embrace it. Force the bluff and make them suffer. After a few real filibusters they will have to come up with a new ploy.
Actually, there's an easier way than that .. it's by changing the rules. It only needs majority to pass. Since the repubs have a majority .. the dems will be outfoxed. Once the rule is changed, each nominee will only need 51 votes to pass - not 60. At least I think that's how it works. Frist has talked about it and so have others from the Senate.