Correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't the opposition just threaten to filibuster and that usually prevents the vote? Call their bluff and make them stand in the well and talk until they drop. See what they're made of instead of just rolling over before the "threat".
That's not the way to end the filibuster. With 45 on their side, they can go on indefinitely. Too many people to hand it off to.
The proper way is a rules change.
No, there were active filibusters on a number of candidates and colutre motions failed. It was more than just and empty threat.