[3] Salisbury became USC's starting quarterback midway through the 1982 season, which they ended with a record of 8–3; NCAA sanctions prevented them from playing in a bowl game.

Salisbury suffered a season-ending injury early in the 1984 season, but was on the team as USC won the Rose Bowl over Ohio State.

In his 1985 senior year, Salisbury was the main quarterback through a 6–5 campaign, but lost the starting job to Rodney Peete before they fell to Alabama in the Aloha Bowl.

Salisbury finished his USC career as the school's all-time leader in pass completions (346) and yards gained (4,481), breaking marks previously held by Paul McDonald; both records were later broken by Peete.

He also ranked fourth in USC history in total offense (4,127 yards), trailing Charles White, Marcus Allen and Jimmy Jones.

During his ten-year career, Salisbury was a member of the Seattle Seahawks, Indianapolis Colts, Minnesota Vikings, Houston Oilers, and San Diego Chargers, as well as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League.

In 1988, Salisbury led the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to a Grey Cup championship over Matt Dunigan and the BC Lions.

On the set, Salisbury taught Adam Sandler proper quarterback mechanics, cadences, and footwork.

He also did guest spots on the ESPN Classic comedy program Cheap Seats, where he provided his signature breakdowns of the action in a more comedic manner.

[4] "I can't believe I'm having my number retired like John Elway, Marcus Allen, Larry Bird or Magic Johnson," Salisbury said.